Siren
/ˈsaɪ.rən/noun
A creature from Greek mythology that lured sailors to their deaths with enchanting music.
Did you know?In ancient lore, Sirens were often depicted as half-bird, half-woman, embodying both beauty and danger, a symbol of irresistible temptation.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*sīr
“to sing, to chant”
Ancient Greek
Greek
Σειρήν (Seirēn)
“one who entangles or binds”
Latin
Latin
Siren
“a Siren, a creature that sings to lure sailors”
Middle English
Middle English
siren
“a mythical creature known for its alluring song”
Modern English
English
siren
“a being that captivates through song or sound, often with a fatal consequence”
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