salmacis
/ˈsælməsɪs/
noun
- In Greek mythology, a nymph who merged with the youth Hermaphroditus to form a single being with both male and female characteristics.
- The story of Salmacis and Hermaphroditus is told in Ovid's Metamorphoses.
- Salmacis is often associated with a fountain that had the power to soften those who drank from it.
- In art, Salmacis is sometimes depicted embracing Hermaphroditus in a pool.