Origin of the Word “Siren”

The word “siren” comes from the Greek word “Seirēn” (Σειρήν), which was the name of a group of dangerous mythical creatures.

In modern English, a “siren” can mean:

• A device that makes a loud warning sound

• Or a person who attracts others in a dangerous or tempting way

Both meanings come from the original Greek story.

The Story of the Sirens

In Greek mythology, the Sirens were creatures who lived on rocky islands in the sea. They were often described as part woman and part bird (later stories describe them as mermaid-like).

The Sirens had beautiful, magical voices. They sang songs so sweet and powerful that sailors could not resist listening.

When ships passed near their island, the Sirens would begin to sing. Their song made sailors:

• Forget everything

• Lose control of their minds

• Steer their ships toward the sound

But this was a trap. The ships would crash into rocks, and the sailors would be destroyed. The island of the Sirens was said to be full of bones of those who had been trapped by their song.

The Story of Odysseus and the Sirens

One of the most famous stories is from the journey of Odysseus. Odysseus wanted to hear the Sirens’ song but stay safe. So he made a clever plan. He told his sailors to block their ears with wax and he asked them to tie him tightly to the ship’s mast.  As they sailed past, the Sirens sang. Odysseus was tempted and begged to be released but his sailors ignored him (because they could not hear him). In this way, they safely passed the Sirens without danger.

The Sirens represent:

• Dangerous attraction

• Temptation that leads to harm

• The power of sound and voice

That is why today:

• A warning alarm is called a “siren” (it grabs attention strongly)

• A person who attracts others dangerously is also called a “siren”