The spelling of the phrase "the three weird sisters" may seem confusing to those unfamiliar with English pronunciation. In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be spelled as /ðə θri:wɪəd ˈsɪstəz/. The "th" in "the" is voiced, indicated by the symbol ð, while the vowel sound in "weird" is represented by the diphthong ɪə. The final "s" in "sisters" is pronounced with a voiced "z" sound due to the preceding vowel. This phrase is commonly known as the three witches in Shakespeare's "Macbeth."
"The three weird sisters" is a phrase coined by William Shakespeare in his play Macbeth. It refers to the three witches who play a significant role in the story. The term "weird" here is derived from the Middle English term "wyrd," which means fate or destiny. A dictionary definition of "the three weird sisters" would thus describe them as supernatural beings representing the forces of fate or destiny.
In Macbeth, the three weird sisters are depicted as mysterious and otherworldly beings who possess prophetic powers. They serve as the catalysts for the tragic events that unfold in the play, as they prophesy Macbeth's rise to power and eventual downfall. Their prophecies, although enigmatic and often presented in riddles, guide Macbeth's actions and set the trajectory of the plot.
As a dictionary definition, "the three weird sisters" could also mention their distinctive physical appearance, with Shakespeare describing them as having beards and paradoxically both malevolent and enchanting personalities. Their presence creates an unsettling atmosphere throughout the play, symbolizing the darker forces at work in the world.
Overall, "the three weird sisters" in Macbeth serves as a symbol representing the influence of supernatural forces and the inescapable nature of destiny. They embody a pivotal theme of the play, exploring the consequences of ambition, moral corruption, and the blurred lines between reality and the supernatural.