Werewolf
/ˈwɛər.wʊlf/noun
A mythical creature that can transform from human to wolf.
Did you know?In ancient folklore, full moons were believed to enhance the powers of transformation, making the night a time of both fear and enchantment.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*weraz
“man, male”
Old English
OE
werwulf
“man-wolf, a creature of folklore with the ability to shapeshift”
Old High German
OHG
werwolf
“man-wolf, the same concept of human transformation into a wolf”
Middle English
ME
werewulf
“a legendary creature, half-man and half-wolf, known for its ferocity”
Modern English
English
werewolf
“a creature capable of transforming from human to wolf, often during a full moon.”