/jin/ , n. , pl. jinns , ( esp. collectively ) jinn . Islamic Myth.
any of a class of spirits, lower than the angels, capable of appearing in human and animal forms and influencing humankind for either good or evil.
Also, jinni /ji nee", jin"ee/ , djin, djinn, djinni, jin .
[ 1675-85; pl. of Ar jinni demon ]