noun
satyr
SAY-ter/ˈseɪtər/
A mythological woodland being with human and animal traits.
The satyr raises a wine cup as he dances among the trees.
Etymology
Greek satyros named a woodland spirit and companion of Bacchus, placing the creature in a setting of revelry. Its deeper origin is unknown; the familiar goat-like form reflects Roman assimilation to fauns.
In context
overall satyr was seen as woodland spirits associated with fertility but the term itself is fairly broad because they can differ so drastically
More examples
- In the myth, satyrs follow the wine god Dionysus.
- The statue depicts a satyr with pointed ears and a tail.
- She sketches a satyr playing panpipes beneath an oak.
Forms
satyr · satyrs
Similar words
- faun
- A Roman woodland being, typically depicted with goatlike features.