# werewolf

/ˈwɛɹˌwʊɫf/ (US) · /wˈeəwʊlf/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/werewolf
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a person in stories who changes into a wolf when there is a full moon. They usually have super strength and can only be hurt by silver.

For teachers: a mythical being who undergoes a periodic transformation from human to lupine form, typically triggered by the appearance of a full moon.

## Examples

- The legend says a werewolf only changes during a full moon.
- In many horror movies, the protagonist realizes they are a werewolf after waking up in the woods with no memory of the night.
- Folklore regarding the werewolf varies across cultures, but most modern interpretations emphasize the tragic loss of human consciousness during the violent physical metamorphosis.

## Usage notes

- Often used in the context of horror fiction, mythology, or folklore.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.