1. the supposed transformation of a human being into a wolf or other animal (from Greek lykos, “wolf”). Belief in lycanthropy reached epidemic proportions in Europe during the 16th century, when 600 supposed lycanthropes were sentenced to death for having committed violent crimes in animal form. Also called lycomania; zoanthropy.

2. a condition in which a person has delusions that he or she is or can become a wolf or other animal.