Jin

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A type of spirit or supernatural being found in Arabian folklore that possesses magical powers and can influence human affairs
2. A figure in Islamic mythology often described as made of smokeless fire, capable of taking various forms
3. A mythical creature in Middle Eastern tales, known for granting wishes or acting as protectors or tricksters depending on their nature

Etymology: In Japanese, the character 神 is read "jin" in compounds and "kami" on its own, and it means a god, deity, or divine spirit. This English entry takes its form from that Japanese reading. The sense given here, a spirit from Arabian folklore that wields magic and can shape human affairs, comes from a different tradition. The Japanese character supplies the spelling, while the supernatural figure it describes is one of the spirits of Arabian belief.

Synonyms: genie, djinn, spirit, phantom, magic being