swan maiden

noun

: a maiden of Germanic mythology held to be able to transform herself into a swan by the use of a magical object (such as a ring or a cloak of swan feathers)

Word History

Etymology

translation of German schwanenjungfrau

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near swan maiden

Cite this Entry

“Swan maiden.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/swan%20maiden. Accessed 29 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!