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lycanthropy

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /laɪˈkænθrəpi/

KK: /laɪˈkænθrəpi/

noun
Definition

A belief or delusion that a person can transform into a wolf or has the characteristics of a wolf, often associated with folklore and magic.


Example

In many cultures, lycanthropy is seen as a curse or a magical ability.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of lycanthropy?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's that folklore about turning into a wolf, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! I find it fascinating how people believed in lycanthropy back in the day.
Sloth B
It is interesting, especially with all the myths surrounding werewolves.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
werewolf
shapeshifting
transformation
Antonyms
humanity
normalcy
stability
Root Explanation

Lycanthropy → It is formed from "lykos" (meaning wolf) and "anthropos" (meaning human). The term describes the transformation of a human into a wolf or wolf-like creature, reflecting the blend of human and wolf characteristics.

Memory Tip

Imagine a person who can transform into a 'wolf' ('lykos') and is still 'human' ('anthropos') — that's the essence of lycanthropy.

Visually Confused Words
cynanthropy
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