The spelling of the word "lamia" can be confusing due to its pronunciation. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled as /ˈleɪmiə/, with the stress on the first syllable. It is pronounced as "luh-mee-uh" with a long "a" sound followed by "mee" and ending with "uh". This mythical creature has origins in Greek mythology and is often associated with being a demon or a female vampire. Proper spelling and pronunciation are important for effectively communicating about this legendary figure.
Lamia refers to a mythical creature from Greek and Roman mythology that can be described as a monstrous vampire-like creature or a female demon. In ancient Greek folklore, the Lamia was usually depicted as a beautiful woman who enchanted and seduced men to eat their flesh or drink their blood. She was believed to have the upper half of a woman and the lower half of a serpent or a fish.
Lamia is also associated with the child-killing aspect of her legend. According to the myth, she would abduct and devour children, sometimes taking the form of a nightmarish creature with multiple mouths or devouring her victims whole. While she possessed the power of shape-shifting, in her true form, she had fiery eyes and sharp teeth.
The term "lamia" can also be used metaphorically to refer to a seductress or a femme fatale, someone who uses their charm and beauty to manipulate or harm others. This usage is often found in literature and art, depicting a captivating yet dangerous female character.
Overall, the concept of a lamia represents a dark and alluring creature that embodies fears and dangers associated with enticement, consumption, and malevolence.
A kind of demon among the ancients under the form of a beautiful woman; a witch; a hag.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "lamia" originates from Greek mythology. In Greek mythology, Lamia was a legendary queen of Libya who was loved by Zeus. However, Zeus' wife, Hera, became jealous and killed all of Lamia's children. In her grief, Lamia transformed into a vengeful monster with the ability to shape-shift. Lamia was often depicted as a half-woman and half-serpent creature, who would prey on and devour children. The name "Lamia" is derived from the Greek word "lamia" (λάμια), which referred to the mythical creature and eventually became a term used to describe other female monsters or evil spirits in Greek folklore. Over time, the term "lamia" has been adopted more broadly to refer to a female vampire-like creature or a seductive, malevolent woman in various cultural contexts.