Changeling

usgb/ˈtʃeɪndʒlɪŋ/
noun

A child believed to have been secretly exchanged by fairies for the parents' real child.

Parents were fearful of their baby being replaced by a changeling.
Visual representation of "changeling" - A child believed to have been secretly exchanged by fairies for the parents' real child.

Often appears as...

  • changeling myth
  • changeling belief
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "changeling"
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Folklore Origin

The word originates from European folklore and is often used in stories about fairies.

Illustration for Folklore Origin
In the tale, the infant's odd behavior led villagers to suspect a changeling.
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Negative Connotation

'Changeling' can imply that something is not genuine or is out of place.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The artist felt like a changeling in the corporate world.
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Literary Device

Used metaphorically in literature to symbolize alienation or loss of identity.

Illustration for Literary Device
The protagonist in the novel felt like a changeling, never fitting in with his peers.
Visual representation of the word "Changeling"

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