ˈsaɪərən n. 1 a a
device for making a
loud prolonged signal or
warning sound,
esp. by revolving a perforated
disc over a jet of compressed
air or
steam. b
the sound
made by
this. 2 (in
Greek mythology)
each of a
number of
women or winged creatures
whose singing lured
unwary sailors on to rocks. 3 a
sweet singer. 4 a a dangerously fascinating
woman; a temptress. b a
tempting pursuit etc. 5 (attrib.) irresistibly tempting. 6 an eel-shaped tailed
amphibian of the
family Sirenidae. øsiren
suit a one-piece
garment for the
whole body,
easily put on or taken
off, orig. for
use in air-raid shelters. [ME f. OF sereine, sirene f. LL Sirena fem. f. L f. Gk Seiren]