Tiyanak (en. Tiyanak)

/tʃi.ˈja.nak/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishTagalog
noun
A being in Philippine mythology typically described as a child or infant with supernatural traits.
According to legend, the tiyanak transforms into a baby to elicit sympathy from people.
Ayon sa alamat, ang tiyanak ay nagiging bata upang makakuha ng simpatiya mula sa mga tao.
A type of malevolent spirit recognized for its wailing or crying.
They saw the tiyanak crying in the middle of the forest.
Nakita nila ang tiyanak na umiiyak sa gitna ng gubat.

Etymology

derived from Philippine folklore

Common Phrases and Expressions

That might be a tiyanak!
A phrase used to express fear or uncertainty about an unseen being or occurrence.
Baka tiyanak yan!

Related Words

aswang
A type of malevolent being or monster in Philippine lore that often transforms into a human by day and a monster by night.
aswang
engkanto
A spirit that represents charm and nature, often associated with natural resources.
engkanto

Slang Meanings

a baby or infant found in the forest
Wow, I saw something like a tiyanak in the woods, it's small and has fangs!
Aba, parang tiyanak yung nakita ko sa gubat, ang liit at may mga pangil!
intentionally scaring or tricking others
Wow, she pretended to be a tiyanak to scare her classmates!
Grabe, nag-pretend siya na tiyanak siya para takutin yung mga kaklase niya!
a girl or cute woman who loves to be noticed
Wow, Ella's like a tiyanak, so cute that she always gets noticed!
Aba, si Ella parang tiyanak, sa sobrang cute, lagi siyang napapansin!