selkies

/ˈsɛlkiz/
noun
  1. Plural of selkie; mythical creatures from Scottish and Irish folklore that live as seals in the sea but can shed their skin to become human on land.
    • According to legend, selkies return to the ocean if they find their seal skin.
    • The museum had an exhibit about selkies and other sea creatures.
    • Many stories tell of selkies who fall in love with humans.