This list features some gorgeous words that fantasy writers can use for inspiration. Definitions are included.
Chimerical (also ‘Chimeric’)
Adjective used to describe a mythical animal formed from parts of various other animals - not necessarily in a mad scientist way.
E.g. a magic creature with the head of a fish and the body of a worm could be called a chimerical creature. It can also be used to describe fantastical ideas.
Legerdemain
Sleight of hand, often used to describe people’s proficiency at performing conjuring tricks. Could be used for legitimate magical beings, or for fraudsters who want to appear magical.
Liminal Fantasy
A type of fantasy story in which magic exists in a world simialr to our own, and nobody bats an eye at it. These stories often take a ironic, blasé tone. Things like unicorns and fairies are - to our characters - as common as ants.
Grimoire
A book of instructions in the use of alchemy or magic. This word is used especially to describe books containing spells for summoning supernatural creatures.
Raconteur
Someone who tells anecdotes in a skilful and amusing way. Raconteurs are a relatively common feature in fantasy stories and are often used as a framing device.
To speak of cliches, they’re usually getting thrown out of an inn and offering “a tale” for coin. Not sure where they got that rep from.
Ley Line
Straight alignments drawn between various historic structures and prominent landmarks, also known as ‘energy lines’.
Some hold the belief that these lines are powerful and magical.
