Changeling (noun)

A creature or person that has been substituted for a human child, often in folklore or fairy tales.

Origin:

The word changeling comes from the middle english word 'chaunge-ling', meaning 'to change or exchange'. it has been used since the medieval period to describe a creature that has been substituted for a human child.

Examples:

1. The changeling was said to be a fairy child left in place of a human baby.
2. In some folklore, changelings were believed to be mischievous and troublesome.
3. The parents searched for their real child, but the changeling refused to leave their care.
4. The changeling was said to have supernatural powers and a connection to the fairy realm.
5. The changeling's true nature was eventually discovered and the parents were reunited with their real child.