Ways to say it
| Polish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| czarownica | /t͡ʂa.rɔvˈɲi.t͡sa/ | feminine |
| wiedźma | /ˈvjɛd͡ʑ.ma/ | feminine |
| jędza | /ˈjɛn.d͡za/ | feminine |
| heksa | /ˈxɛk.sa/ | feminine |
All forms of this word refer to a person, specifically a woman, who uses magic. The choice of word depends on whether you are describing a fairytale character, a sinister figure, a mean old woman or using slang.
What does it mean word for word?
The term czarownica is derived from the root 'czar', meaning 'spell' or 'charm', making it literally a 'spell-woman'.
Which one should you use?
czarownica is the most common term and is typically used in a neutral, fairytale or fantasy context. wiedźma often carries a more sinister, dark or archaic connotation. jędza is a pejorative term used specifically to describe a witch who is a mean, ugly or unpleasant old woman. heksa is a colloquial or slangy way to refer to a witch.
How does it change in a sentence?
All provided forms are feminine nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation of czarownica is /tʂa.rɔvˈɲi.tsa/. It has four syllables, with the stress on the third syllable.
Did you know?
- The word wiedźma shares the same ancient root as the English word 'wit' and 'wisdom'. It originally described someone who 'knows' or possesses secret knowledge.
- While jędza refers to a witch, it is often used in daily life as a sharp insult for any shrewish or unpleasant woman who has no magical powers at all.
- In Polish, the word wiedźma is historically older than czarownica as it descends directly from Proto-Slavic roots.
Examples in context
- Twoja matka to wiedźma.Your mother is a witch.This sentence uses wiedźma to identify a person's character.Tatoeba #12889102 by mwgamera, translation #10067786 by Nylez
- Wiedźma przywróciła potwora do życia.The witch resurrected the monster.This sentence shows wiedźma performing a magical act.Tatoeba #7998999 by arie, translation #3902464 by Amastan
- Spotkałem dziś czarownicę w lesie.I met a witch in the forest today.
- Znajoma mojej siostry jest wiedźmą.My sister's friend is a witch.
- 2 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Paweł and Agnieszka are discussing a costume party.
- PawełJakim kostiumem chcesz się przebrać?What costume do you want to wear?
- AgnieszkaMyślę, że będę jako czarownica.I think I will be a witch.
- PawełTo świetny pomysł, Agnieszko!That is a great idea, Agnieszka!
- AgnieszkaMuszę tylko kupić spiczasty kapelusz.I just need to buy a pointed hat.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “witch” translations and entries czarownica, wiedźma, jędza, heksa, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries czarownica, heksa, jędza, wiedźma, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
