manlions

Manlions are a fictional humanoid creature used in fantasy and speculative fiction to denote hybrids of humans and lions. They are typically depicted with a lion’s head, mane, and forelimbs, or as bipedal lions with human-like torsos and intelligence. They commonly possess strength and hunting instincts of lions, coupled with human speech and culture.

In fiction, manlions are often portrayed as guardians, warriors, or nomadic clans. Societal structures vary; some stories have prides with social hierarchies, while others present solitary hunters. Their habitats range from savannas and forests to magical realms, depending on the world-building.

Origin and folklore: While not a distinct historical myth, the concept echoes ancient guardian beings such as lamassu or sphinx-like figures and shares themes with were-lion traditions in some modern fantasies. They appear in video games, tabletop RPGs, and novels as antagonists, allies, or ambiguous figures.

See also: sphinx, lamassu, werecreature, shapeshifter.