MEANING
A being of northern European coastal folklore that can change between seal and human forms.
Use it for
divided identities; captivity through stolen skins; longing for the seaMake a transformation depend on a vulnerable, tangible possession.
Words that belong together
- selkie's skin
- selkie bride
- return of the selkie
On the page
The selkie searched every chest for her missing skin.
At low tide, a selkie brought news from the outer islands.
He left the selkie's coat where she could reach it.
Related words
Word forms
- Base
- selkie
Usage notes
Primary category: fantasy. Many tales connect transformation to a removable sealskin; specify this tradition rather than treating selkie as any shapeshifter. Noun: selkie; plural selkies.
Practice this word in a sentenceYour margin notes
Keep a thought for later. Sign in to save privately.