Todays word: Proteusian (adj.) able to change shape at will; variable; inconstant.

Proteus was the son of Poseidon, and a god of the sea. It is said he could take on new shapes at will. Numerous mythical creatures have been assigned this ability, including vampires and werewolves. Although these creatures are limited in the forms they can take, some shape-shifters can take on almost any form. Amoebae are constantly redefining their shape as a means of movement, and to capture food.

I cannot find a reference to this term in any dictionary; however, given the origins, I am assuming it must be pronounced Pro-tee-us-ee-an.

My much-treasured Christmas present for 2017 is a book by Paul Anthony Jones: "The cabinet of linguistic curiosities". Each page contains a descriptive story about some obscure or archaic word. It occurred to me it would be a fun exercise to try and write, each day, a poem featuring the "word of the day" from the book.

You need to login or register to write reviews. It's quick! We only ask four questions to new members.