Definition of Lycanthropy: Lycanthropy refers to the mythical or supernatural transformation of a person into a wolf, as recounted in folklore and fiction. In a broader sense, it can denote any transformation from human to animal form. The term is also used in psychology to describe a rare mental condition in which a person believes they can, or have, transformed into an animal.
Etymology and Origin: The term ‘lycanthropy’ is derived from the Greek words ‘lykos’, meaning ‘wolf’, and ‘anthropos’, meaning ‘human’. The belief in lycanthropy is ancient and widespread, with stories of humans transforming into wolves (and other animals) found in many cultures around the world, most notably in European folklore. In these tales, lycanthropy is often associated with the influence of the full moon.
