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.
There’s no real benefit to showing more of the human Pennywise, which, if anything, undermines the horror of the shape-shifter’s most infamous form. Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 8 Dec. 2025 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 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 15 Dec. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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