Bewitch: meaning, definitions and examples

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bewitch

 

[ bɪˈwɪtʃ ]

Verb
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

Translations of the word "bewitch" in other languages:

🇵🇹 encantar

🇮🇳 मंत्रमुग्ध करना

🇩🇪 bezaubern

🇮🇩 menyihir

🇺🇦 зачаровувати

🇵🇱 zaczarować

🇯🇵 魅了する

🇫🇷 ensorceler

🇪🇸 hechizar

🇹🇷 büyülemek

🇰🇷 매혹하다

🇸🇦 يسحر

🇨🇿 očarovat

🇸🇰 očariť

🇨🇳 迷住

🇸🇮 očarati

🇮🇸 heilla

🇰🇿 сүйсіндіру

🇬🇪 მოჯადოება

🇦🇿 cazibələndirmək

🇲🇽 hechizar

Etymology

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.