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Bewitching: meaning, definitions and examples

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bewitching

 

[bɪˈwɪtʃɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

describing something captivating

Enchanting or charming in a mysterious or magical way. Bewitching often implies a sense of fascination or allure that is difficult to resist.

Synonyms

captivating, charming, enchanting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bewitching

Typically used to describe someone or something that has an almost magical power to attract or fascinate. It can carry a slightly mystical or mysterious connotation.

  • Her bewitching smile left everyone in the room spellbound.
  • The bewitching melody stayed with him long after the concert ended.
enchanting

Refers to something or someone that delights or fascinates you and makes you feel like you are under a spell. It can emphasize a fairy-tale or otherworldly quality.

  • The garden was enchanting, filled with colorful flowers and the sound of birds singing.
  • Her enchanting voice took the audience to another realm.
captivating

Often used when someone or something holds your attention completely because it is so interesting or attractive. It emphasizes the idea of being unable to look away.

  • The story was so captivating that I finished the book in one sitting.
  • Her captivating performance earned a standing ovation from the audience.
charming

Used to describe someone or something very pleasant or attractive, often with a warm and friendly appeal. It can refer to good manners or an engaging personality.

  • He was the most charming host, making everyone feel welcome.
  • The small town was charming with its cobblestone streets and quaint little shops.

Examples of usage

  • The bewitching melody of the music filled the room.
  • Her bewitching smile captivated everyone around her.
  • The bewitching beauty of the sunset left him speechless.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'bewitching' is derived from the Old English 'wiccian', meaning 'to cast a spell'.
  • It combines 'be-' a prefix that indicates 'thoroughly' with 'witch', emphasizing the magical quality.
  • The concept of bewitching has been present in many cultures’ folklore, often linked to powerful women or figures.

Literature

  • In many fairy tales, a bewitching character often leads heroes on adventures filled with magic and exploration.
  • Shakespeare often used bewitching characters to convey themes of love and desire, such as in 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'.
  • Modern fantasy novels frequently feature bewitching creatures, enhancing the enchanting atmosphere of their worlds.

Psychology

  • Bewitching experiences can evoke strong emotional responses, making people feel captivated or enchanted.
  • Certain colors and imagery can create a bewitching effect, drawing attention and evoking curiosity in viewers.
  • The allure of bewitching elements can lead to altered states of perception, as seen in certain artworks or performances.

Pop Culture

  • Films like 'Harry Potter' and 'The Wizard of Oz' often portray 'bewitching' scenes to immerse the audience in magic.
  • Popular songs about love often describe feelings as bewitching, emphasizing the captivating nature of attraction.
  • The term is frequently used in fashion and beauty, where looks can be described as bewitching due to their captivating nature.

Cultural Significance

  • Many cultures celebrate festivals that involve bewitching elements, such as Halloween, which features witches and magic.
  • Traditional storytelling often describes bewitching characters that represent nature's beauty and mystery.
  • Art from various cultures frequently explores themes of bewitching nature through symbols and motifs of enchantment.

Translations

Translations of the word "bewitching" in other languages:

🇵🇹 encantador

🇮🇳 मोहक

🇩🇪 bezaubernd

🇮🇩 memikat

🇺🇦 зачаровує

🇵🇱 czarujący

🇯🇵 魅惑的な (miwakuteki na)

🇫🇷 envoûtant

🇪🇸 encantador

🇹🇷 büyüleyici

🇰🇷 매혹적인 (maehokjeog-in)

🇸🇦 ساحر

🇨🇿 okouzlující

🇸🇰 očarujúci

🇨🇳 迷人的 (mí rén de)

🇸🇮 očarljiv

🇮🇸 heillandi

🇰🇿 әсем

🇬🇪 მომხიბლავი

🇦🇿 cazibədar

🇲🇽 encantador

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,566, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.