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selkie

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈsɛlki/

KK: /ˈsɛlki/

noun
Definition

A being from Scottish and Irish folklore that can change from a seal to a human.


Example

In the story, the selkie transformed into a beautiful woman on the shore.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of a selkie?
Sloth B
Yeah, I think it's a creature from folklore, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! They can transform from seals to humans.
Sloth B
That's so fascinating — I'd love to read more about them!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
seal
spirit
myth
Antonyms
human
mortal
terrestrial
Root Explanation

Selkie → The word 'selkie' originates from the Scottish Gaelic 'séalgaire' (meaning seal hunter) and is derived from 'séal' (meaning seal) and the suffix '-aire' (indicating a person associated with). In folklore, selkies are mythical creatures that can transform from seals into humans, often associated with the sea and its mysteries.

Memory Tip

Imagine a creature that is a 'seal' ('séal') and a 'hunter' ('aire') of its own kind, which helps you remember that a selkie is a mythical being that can change from a seal into a human.

Visually Confused Words
silkie
sellie
sele
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