The word "wizards" is spelled with a "z" rather than an "s" due to the pronunciation of the word - the final consonant sound is voiced, meaning the vocal cords vibrate when producing the sound. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled /ˈwɪzədz/. This differs from the word "wishes", which is spelled with an "s" because the final consonant sound is unvoiced, meaning the vocal cords do not vibrate when producing the sound. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled /ˈwɪʃɪz/.
Wizards are individuals who possess extraordinary and mystical powers, often associated with the realm of magic and sorcery. These individuals are believed to possess an innate ability to manipulate the forces of the supernatural and use them for various purposes. Wizards are often portrayed as wise and knowledgeable individuals who have spent years honing their magical skills.
In folklore and mythology, wizards are frequently depicted as elderly figures, clad in long robes, with long white beards and staffs. They are often associated with a secluded lifestyle, residing in remote or hidden places such as castles, towers, or in the depths of forests. Wizards are commonly portrayed as advisers, guides, or mentors to protagonists of mythical tales.
The powers of wizards may include casting spells, divination, conjuring, and enchanting objects or beings. They are often seen as healers, able to cure ailments through magic, or as warriors, using their powers in battles against evil forces.
The term "wizard" is also commonly used in popular culture and fantasy literature to refer to characters with magical abilities, such as those found in the Harry Potter series or The Lord of the Rings. These fictional wizards often possess unique traits and powers, making them distinct and compelling characters within their respective narratives.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "wizards" can be traced back to the Old English term "wicca" or "wicce", which referred to a male and female magician or sorcerer, respectively. This Old English word further evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "*wikkjaz", meaning "diviner" or "soothsayer". The term "wizz" was also used in Middle English to describe a wise person or a sage. Over time, these various linguistic influences and modifications led to the development of the word "wizards" as it is used today to refer to powerful magicians or enchanters.