shapeshifter

American  

[sheyp-shif-ter] / ˈʃeɪpˌʃɪf tər /

noun

1. a fictional being that can transform itself from one physical form into another.

   Zeus was a great shapeshifter, taking many unexpected forms, including that of a swan, a gopher, a cloud, and even a shower of gold.

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Other Word Forms

• shapeshifting
  noun
• shapeshift
  verb (used without object)

Etymology

Origin of shapeshifter

First recorded in 1885–90; shape ( def. ) + shifter ( def. )

Example Sentences

Native American tradition speaks of a type of shapeshifter known as a tolik, or human bear, who can cast lethal spells on their enemies.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026

“How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney?” is a story that imagines Santa Claus as a shapeshifter who takes different forms in order to deliver presents on his Christmas Eve route.

From Salon • Dec. 11, 2025

Speaking of the 2016 film, Dwayne Johnson, who voiced the shapeshifter demigod and hero of men in the animated “Moana,” will also portray the live-action version of the arrogant trickster.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 18, 2025

Jenrick is also a Thatcher fan - one of his daughters has Thatcher for a middle name - but Badenoch's supporters have accused him of being a "shapeshifter".

From BBC • Oct. 11, 2024

“Mystique’s a shapeshifter, so she always wins,” I said.

From "The Season of Styx Malone" by Kekla Magoon