pied piper of hamelin
Proper noun A legendary figure from a German folk tale, popularized in English by Robert Browning's poem, who uses his magical pipe-playing ability to lure away the rats plaguing the town of Hamelin. When the townspeople refuse to pay him the promised reward, he uses the same power to lead the town's children away.
This term is used to refer to the specific legendary character from the story. * The story of the Pied Piper of Hamelin is a cautionary tale about the consequences of broken promises. * In the tale, the Pied Piper of Hamelin is initially hailed as a hero for ridding the town of rats.
The term "Pied Piper" (without "of Hamelin") is commonly used as a metaphor. * Metaphorical Use: A charismatic leader who attracts a devoted following, often with potentially dangerous or misleading allure. * The revolutionary leader was a Pied Piper to the nation's youth. * Critics accused the populist politician of being a modern-day Pied Piper.
- Pied Piper (noun): The shortened, metaphorical form of the term.
- Pied (adjective, archaic): Having two or more different colors, especially in blotches; multicolored. This describes the piper's patchwork clothing.
- Charmer
- Enchanter
- Siren (figurative, implying a dangerous allure)
- To play the Pied Piper: To act as a charismatic but potentially irresponsible leader who attracts followers.
- The CEO played the Pied Piper, leading the company into a risky new market.
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the title character in a German folk tale and in a poem by Robert Browning
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