Sirens
/ˈsaɪrənz/noun
Mythological beings, or warning devices that emit a piercing sound.
Did you know?The Greek Sirens were not originally bird-women in the oldest myths; they were dangerous divine singers whose name may be linked to an uncertain pre-Greek origin, later becoming a symbol of irresistible, fatal allure.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
Seirḗn / Σειρήν
“A Siren: a mythical creature whose song lures sailors to destruction.”
Late Latin
Latin
sīrēn
“A Siren, borrowed from Greek mythology.”
Old French
Old French
sirene
“A Siren; later also a loud warning device by extension.”
Middle English
English
siren
“A Siren; a dangerously alluring woman; later, a warning sound or device.”
Modern English
English
siren
“A mythological temptress; a loud warning signal or device.”