Zână
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Zână (plural zâne; zînă and zîne, ingrid and d̦âne in
fairies and the Germanic elf
. They vary in size and appearance and can transform to blend into their surroundings for protection and cover. They can appear openly in the woods and coax travelers to follow them in order to help them find their way. They can also hide in the woods and quietly guide those who need help through signs and "breadcrumbs" through the forest.
Mythological role
They give life to
guardian angels, especially for children who enter the woods or other good people.[citation needed
]
Etymology
The word zână comes from the Roman goddess Diana (as does Astur-Leonese xana). She is the one who has all the beauty, and is the one that gives it away.
In culture
Zână is also used in current Romanian slang to refer to an attractive girl.
See also
References
- ISBN 978-1-4438-4268-6.