Historically, the word witch has had a highly negative connotation, often used as a synonym for the word hag, and traditionally in modern english a male witch was called a warlock instead. I find it interesting that some pagan groups have worked hard to reclaim the word witch and give it a more positive connotation while simultaneously insisting that the negative connotation of the word warlock be maintained. The idea of playing a male “witch” is not something I’m particularly crazy about however. I much prefer the words mage, wizard, sorcerer, and even the much disparaged warlock. I’d also take the old english wiċċa or the more recently popularized witcher over the baggage that goes with the word witch. That may just be me however.
