shape shifters
Beings altering appearance
Shape shifters are beings—typically mythological or fictional—capable of transforming their physical form into other creatures or objects.
The concept appears across folklore worldwide, from werewolves to selkies to skinwalkers.
In fantasy and science fiction, shape shifters often use their ability for deception or disguise: The alien shape shifters could impersonate anyone.
Figuratively, a shape shifter is someone who adapts their persona to different situations.
Also spelled shape-shifters or shapeshifters.
- werewolvesHumans who become wolves
- full moonCompletely lit satellite phase
- metamorphosisProfound biological restructuring
- transformationThorough change in form
- skinwalkersNavajo witch shapeshifters
true form · doppelgangers · alter ego · changelings · disguise · morph · tricksters · wolf in sheep's clothing · illusion · mythology · folklore · lycanthropy · animal instincts · mimics · deceivers · fluid · masks · hidden identity
- African folkloreAnansi, folktales, ancestors, spirits, trickster stories
- Island MythsMaui, Kane, fire goddess, guardian spirits, sacred chants
- Island Folkloreselkie, selkies, kelpie, kelpies, mermaid
- American folklorePaul Bunyan, tall tales, folk heroes, John Henry, folk narratives
- Caucasus folkloreNart sagas, Dali, mountain spirits, mountain gods, Golden Fleece
- Sri Lankan mythologydevil dance, demon masks, guardian deities, exorcism, ancestral spirits
shape shiftersconstants
Unchanging fixed values
permanents · archetypes · pillars · anchors
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