WordNet-Online
Free dictionary and thesaurus of English. Definitions, synonyms, antonyms and more...
Hint: double-click any word to get it searched!

	Enter your search terms Submit search form
	Web www.wordnet-online.com

Definitions from the Web

Will-o-the-wisp

Definition:

A will-o-the-wisp is a phenomenon characterized by a phosphorescent light that appears at night, especially over marshy ground. It is often portrayed as a glowing ball of fire or a flickering lantern, thought to mislead travelers in folklore. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe something elusive or illusory.

Examples:

As a noun:

• Legend has it that will-o-the-wisps are supernatural beings leading people astray in the darkness.
• The marshland was believed to be haunted by will-o-the-wisps, which made local villagers fearful.

As a verb:

• Some people claim they have been will-o-the-wisped, causing them to lose their way in the woods.
• Don't let the opportunity will-o-the-wisp away; it might not come around again.

Possible Related Products:

To learn more about the folklore surrounding will-o-the-wisps, consider exploring the following books on Amazon:

• Will-o-the-Wisp Folklore
• Mythology and Legends
• Mysterious Phenomena