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Merman
noun - Merman is a mythical male equivalent and counterpart of mermaids. They are legendary creatures of the ocean deep who have the form of a male human from the waist up and are fish-like from the waist down with scaly fish tails in place of legs.
The actions and behavior of mermen can vary wildly depending on the source and time period of the stories. They have been said to sink ships by summoning great storms, but also said to be wise teachers, according to earlier mythology. Mermen, just like mermaids, can lure and attract female humans with their enchantingly beautiful, soft melodic and seductive siren-like singing voices and tones. In some modern works and films however, mermen are portrayed as handsome, strong and brave. They are almost always portrayed wearing no clothing, no matter what the temperature of the water is, with the exception of armour or cloaks in some settings.
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Mythology
Greek Mythology
In Greek mythology, mermen were often illustrated to have green seaweed-like hair, a beard, and a trident. The most well-known merman was Triton, son of Poseidon and Amphitrite. Although Amphitrite gave birth to a merman, neither Poseidon nor Amphitrite were merfolk, although both were able to live under water as easily as on land. Triton was also known as the Trumpeter of the Sea for his usage of a conch shell.
Irish Mythology
In Irish mythology, mermen are described as extremely ugly creatures with pointed green teeth, pig-like eyes, green hair, and a red nose.
Finnish Mythology
In Finnish mythology, a merman (vetehinen) is often portrayed as a magical, powerful, handsome, bearded man with the tail of a fish. He can cure illnesses, lift curses and brew potions, but he can also cause unintended harm by becoming too curious about human life.
Brazilian Mythology
The boto of the Amazon River regions is described according to local lore as taking the form of a human or merman, also known as encantado ("enchanted one" in Portuguese) and with the habit of seducing human women and impregnating them.
Chinese Mythology
Chinese mermen were believed to only surface during storms or, in some cases, were believed to have the ability to cause storms.
Norse Mythology
In Norse mythology, in particular Icelandic folklore, mermen are known as Marbendlar.
Russian Mythology
The Russian medieval epic Sadko contains a Sea Tsar who is a merman.
