Enchantress - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

magical being

A woman who is believed to have magical powers and who uses them to put a spell on someone.

Synonyms

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
enchantress	Often used to describe a beautiful woman who has magical powers or who can cast spells. The term usually has a positive or alluring connotation. The tales spoke of an enchantress who could charm anyone with her beauty and magic. The enchantress waved her hand, and the garden burst into bloom.
sorceress	Refers to a female practitioner of magic, usually seen as powerful and often with a darker or more mysterious connotation. The sorceress conjured a storm with a flick of her wrist. She was feared throughout the land as a formidable sorceress.
witch	A term often used negatively to describe a person, usually a woman, who practices magic. It can also refer to someone who participates in witchcraft or Wicca, which can be neutral or positive depending on the context. The villagers accused her of being a witch and practicing dark magic. She follows the traditions of her ancestors as a modern witch.
magician	Usually refers to someone who performs magic tricks or illusions, often in a professional entertainment setting. It can also refer to someone who practices magic in a general sense. The magician amazed the audience with his sleight of hand. He trained for years to become a skilled magician.

Examples of usage

She was known as the enchantress of the forest.
The enchantress cast a spell on the prince, turning him into a beast.

Interesting Facts

Literature

Enchantresses appear in various fairy tales, often as beautiful women with the power to cast spells, like Morgan le Fay from Arthurian legends.
In 'The Odyssey', the enchantress Circe turns men into animals, showcasing the theme of transformation and allure.

Pop Culture

In the Disney movie 'Sleeping Beauty', the character Maleficent is portrayed as an enchantress with powerful magic and a dark allure.
The video game series 'Final Fantasy' features enchantress characters known for their captivating spells and abilities.

Psychology

The concept of enchantment can relate to psychological states where individuals feel absorbed or entranced, often resulting in a temporary escape from reality.
Research shows that experiences of enchantment can increase happiness and creativity.

Mythology

In many cultures, enchantresses are often linked to nature and the elements, emphasizing their connection to the earth's magical aspects.
The ancient Greek goddesses, like the Muses, are considered enchantresses because they inspire and charm artists with their divine influence.

Origin of 'enchantress'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'enchantare', meaning to 'charm' or 'cast a spell'.
It has roots in the Old French word 'enchanter', which also relates to beauty and magic.

The word 'enchantress' originated from the Old French word 'enchanteresse', which came from the verb 'enchant', meaning 'to put under a spell'. The concept of enchantresses has been present in folklore and mythology for centuries, with tales of powerful women using magic to influence others. The enchantress is often portrayed as a mysterious and alluring figure, capable of both good and evil deeds.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,371 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

...
32368 jauntily
32369 vixen
32370 thatching
32371 enchantress
32372 levered
32373 reasserting
32374 holistically
...

Enchantress Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations