W

Wand

A tool in magick which resembles a rod and is used to direct energy towards a goal.

Waning

The lunar phase when the moon is getting "smaller" (more crescent-like). This is the time when magick that involves banishing things, breaking habits, and getting rid of things is to be performed. Opposite of waxing.

Ward

A protection spell.

Warlock

A derogatory term which literally means "oathbreaker". It is a common misconception that male witches are called warlocks. However, male witches are no different than females in this respect and so they are simply called witches.

Watchtowers

A concept derived from ceremonial magick; the four watchtowers each represent a cardinal direction, element, elemental, and a color. They are commonly used in modern Wicca.

Waxing

The lunar phase when the moon is getting "larger" (nearing the full moon). This is the time when magick that involves growth and bringing things toyou is best performed. Opposite of waning.

Wheel of the Year

One full cycle of the seasons, in pagan beliefs in begins on Samhain as opposed to in January.

Wicca

A neo-pagan reconstruction of witchcraft. Most Wiccans call themselves witches, but not all witches are necessarily Wiccan. [For more information see http://www.spiritonline.com/wicca/about.html]

Wiccan

1. A person who follows or practices Wicca. 2. Something related to Wicca. (For example a wiccan book, wiccan artwork, etc.)

Widdershins

Counter clockwise. The opposite of deosil.

Wise Woman

A solitary female practitioner of witchcraft who gave charms and healing salves to villagers in Europe.

Wita

Scottish Wicca. See also Pecti-Wita.

Witch

A practitioner of witchcraft. There are many types and traditions of witches. A witch is not necessarily a Wiccan, though if a Wiccan practices witchcraft they can be called a witch.

Witch Ball

An 18th century tradition; a glass sphere hung in windows to ward off evil spirits. This is where the Christian concept of the Christmas tree ornament came from.

Witchcraft

The practice of spells and magick, often involving the worship of many deities or a supreme God and/or Goddess.

Witta

Irish Wicca.

Wizard

A name for male ceremonial magicians, rarely used for Wiccans unless they are eclectic and use ceremonial magick as well.

WIZARD

Word of Power

A word or name which is supposed to have great power when spoken, most are almost impossible to pronounce and have no meaning in any language.

Working; Magickal Working

Any act involving magick or ritualism.

Wort

An archaic word for herb.