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Bewitch Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bewitch

[bɪˈwɪtʃ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

magical

To bewitch means to cast a spell over someone or to enchant them. It also refers to captivating someone or putting them under a magical trance.

Synonyms

captivate, charm, enchant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bewitch

Typically used when someone is so attractive or interesting that they seem to have a magical influence. It can sometimes carry a slightly negative or mysterious connotation.

  • She bewitched everyone at the party with her stunning beauty.
  • The story bewitched the children, making them hang on every word.
enchant

Used when someone or something seems to cast a spell of happiness, fascination, or admiration. Similar to 'bewitch' but often more positive and fanciful.

  • The music enchanted the crowd, making the night unforgettable.
  • She was enchanted by the fairy-tale-like village.
charm

Often used when someone is pleasing or delightful in a way that makes others like or enjoy being around them. The connotation is generally positive and often implies influence through charisma.

  • He has a way of charming everyone he meets.
  • The old town charmed her with its quaint streets and friendly locals.
captivate

Used to describe someone or something that holds your attention completely in a very positive and engaging way. Ideal for conveying strong fascination.

  • His performance was so powerful that it captivated the entire audience.
  • The book captivated me from the very first page.

Examples of usage

  • She was bewitched by the mysterious stranger.
  • The witch bewitched the prince with her magical powers.
  • The enchanting melody bewitched everyone in the room.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In literature and folklore, bewitching often symbolizes an authoritative or feared female character, like a witch.
  • The phrase 'bewitched' has permeated modern pop culture, influencing films, TV shows, and songs, such as the classic sitcom 'Bewitched.'
  • Historical witch hunts often included accusations of bewitching as a means to explain unexplained phenomena or misfortune.

Psychology

  • Bewitchment in a metaphorical sense can refer to the psychological manipulation or charm that leaves people spellbound.
  • Cognitive biases, like 'halo effect,' can lead individuals to bewitch others by making one admirable trait overshadow other flaws.
  • The feeling of being bewitched can also relate to experiencing awe or wonder, which psychologically connects to moments of bliss or inspiration.

Literature

  • Classic works, like Shakespeare's 'Macbeth', feature witches bewitching characters, reflecting their fears and desires.
  • In 'The Tempest,' figures like Caliban and Ariel play with the concept of bewitchment, highlighting themes of power and control.
  • Romantic poets often used the term to describe a deeper emotional connection, equating intense love with a kind of enchanting spell.

Magic and Mysticism

  • The act of bewitching is frequently associated with rituals that involve charms, spells, or potions.
  • Certain herbs and gemstones are believed by some traditions to enhance the ability to bewitch, such as using lavender or amethyst.
  • Historically, bewitching was thought to be a two-way street - those bewitched could often become enamored with the witch or wizard casting the spell.

Origin of 'bewitch'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from 'be-' meaning 'thoroughly' and 'witch,' which refers to someone who practices magic.
  • Its roots can be traced back to Old English 'bewiccan,' meaning to make an enchantment.
  • In earlier uses, the term often referred to curses or the act of casting a spell rather than simply fascination.

The word 'bewitch' originated from Middle English 'biwicchen', which combines 'bi-' meaning 'thoroughly' and 'wicchen' meaning 'to practice sorcery'. The concept of bewitchment has been prominent in folklore and mythology across various cultures, often associated with magical spells and enchantment.

See also: bewitching, witch, witchcraft.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,572 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.