Changeling

Origin

change + -ling

Full definition of changeling

Noun

1. (mythology) In British, Irish and Scandinavian mythology, an infant of a fairy, sprite or troll that the creature has secretly exchanged for a human infant.
2. (informal, rare) An infant secretly exchanged with another infant.
3. (science fiction and fantasy) An organism which can change shape to mimic others.
4. (obsolete) A simpleton; an idiot.
• DrydenChangelings and fools of heaven, and thence shut out.
5. (obsolete) One apt to change; a waverer.
• ShakespeareFickle changelings.

Synonyms

• (fairy's child) oaf obsolete
• (being that can change shape) shape-shifter