Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A sorceress in Greek mythology: Circe is a mythological figure, specifically a goddess or enchantress known for her magical abilities, most famously for transforming Odysseus's crew into swine in Homer's epic poem, The Odyssey.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • In Homer's Odyssey, the hero Odysseus encounters Circe on her island of Aeaea.
  • Circe used her potions and wand to turn men into animals.

Advanced Usage

• "Circean" (adjective): Pertaining to or characteristic of Circe; often used to describe something that is dangerously seductive, enchanting, or that causes a transformation.
  • The politician's Circean rhetoric captivated and misled the public.
• Metaphorical use: The name "Circe" can be used metaphorically to refer to a dangerously alluring or manipulative woman.
  • He felt trapped in the web of his Circe-like lover.

Variants and Related Words

• Enchantress: A woman who uses magic or spells; a fascinating or alluring woman.
• Sorceress: A woman who practices sorcery; a female magician or witch.

Synonyms

• Enchantress
• Sorceress
• Witch
• Magician

Idioms and Phrases

• A Circean transformation: A change that is both magical and dehumanizing or degrading.
  • The cult leader's influence caused a Circean transformation in his followers, stripping them of their free will.

Noun

1. (Greek mythology) a sorceress who detained Odysseus on her island and turned his men into swine