siren
UK[ˈsaɪrən]US[ˈsaɪrən]
n
a device that makes a long, loud sound as a signal or warning.
n
(in ancient greek mythology) each of a number of women or winged creatures whose singing lured unwary sailors onto rocks.
n
a woman who is considered to be alluring or fascinating but also dangerous or deceptive.
Etymology
the word 'siren' entered english in the 14th century via old french and latin, tracing back to the ancient greek 'seirēn'. in greek mythology, the seirēnes were dangerous creatures, often depicted as part-woman, part-bird, who used their enchanting songs to lure sailors to their doom. the term's journey from a specific mythological name to a common noun illustrates semantic broadening. the literal sense of a deadly enchantress provided the metaphorical foundation for its modern meanings: first for a compelling but dangerous woman, and later, in the 19th century, for an acoustical warning device whose piercing sound is metaphorically irresistible and commanding of attention.
Analysis
the word is a simplex loanword from greek. it does not contain separable morphemes in its modern english spelling that correspond to distinct, meaningful components.
Examples
the air raid siren echoed through the city, signaling an imminent attack.
in homer's odyssey, odysseus had his crew tie him to the mast so he could hear the sirens' song without succumbing to it.
she was described by the press as a hollywood siren, captivating audiences with her beauty and talent.