noun
siren
A mythical singer who lures sailors to danger.
The siren sings sweetly as the sailors drift toward the rocks.
Etymology
The Greek name identifies the mythical singers whose irresistible voices drew sailors toward destruction. The modern mythological sense preserves that story directly.
More examples
- The sailors cover their ears to resist the sirens' song.
- In the painting, a siren beckons from a rocky shore.
- The novel portrays her as a siren who charms men into ruin.
Forms
siren · sirens
Similar words
- enchantress
- Suggests magical powers or captivating charm, not specifically dangerous singing.
- temptress
- Emphasizes a woman who tempts others, without the mythological singing.