shape-shifter

noun

shape-shift·​er ˈshāp-ˌshif-tər How to pronounce shape-shifter (audio)
: one that seems able to change form or identity at will
especially : a mythical figure that can assume different forms (as of animals)
shape-shift intransitive verb

Examples of shape-shifter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Someone was calling me a shape-shifter the other day. Michael Saponara, Billboard, 18 June 2025 When casting the band of brotherly shape-shifters, Weitz insisted on authenticity and required everyone who auditioned to provide documentation of their Native American heritage. Samantha Stutsman, People.com, 3 May 2025 Bailey herself is a shape-shifter of sorts, right on the border between child and teenager in age and, with her androgynous looks, occupying an ambiguous place between genders as well. Alison Willmore, Vulture, 8 Nov. 2024 But yeah, Pisces is totally that shape-shifter, that just kind of picks up different interests throughout their lives. Roya Backlund, StyleCaster, 16 Oct. 2024 However, The Boys must now deal with a shape-shifter who’s posing as Starlight. Jordan Moreau, Variety, 11 July 2024 In Asian cultures, these mischievous shape-shifters are venerated but also viewed as avatars of enticing deception. Charlie Jane Anders, Washington Post, 19 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1887, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shape-shifter was in 1887

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Cite this Entry

“Shape-shifter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shape-shifter. Accessed 5 Sep. 2025.

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