Hypnosis Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Psychology

• Hypnosis is often used in therapy to help individuals overcome fears or change habits.
• Studies show that about 10-15% of people are highly susceptible to hypnosis, while others are less responsive.
• During hypnosis, brain scans reveal changes in activity that indicate altered states of awareness and attention.

Pop Culture

• Hypnosis is frequently depicted in movies and TV shows, often with comedic or mysterious effects.
• Famous magicians, like Houdini, used hypnosis in their performances, blending entertainment with psychological techniques.
• The 'hypnotic spiral' is a popular visual icon in pop culture, often associated with trance and suggestion.

Science

• Research suggests that hypnosis can affect pain perception, making it a useful tool in medical settings.
• Some studies indicate that hypnosis can improve outcomes in surgery and other medical treatments by easing anxiety.
• Scientists are still exploring how the brain processes hypnotic suggestions and what factors influence susceptibility.

History

• Ancient cultures, such as the Egyptians and Greeks, practiced forms of trance-like states for healing.
• Franz Anton Mesmer, an 18th-century physician, is often credited with popularizing hypnotic techniques, initially called 'mesmerism.'
• In the late 19th century, it began to be studied scientifically, leading to modern therapeutic approaches.

Main points about word origin

• The term comes from the Greek word 'hypnos,' meaning sleep.
• It was first used in the 19th century to describe practices that induce a trance state.
• Originally, it was often confused with sleep, but now it’s understood as a distinct state of consciousness.

The term 'hypnosis' originated in the 19th century and is derived from the Greek word 'hypnos,' which means 'sleep.' The concept was first introduced by the Scottish surgeon James Braid, who coined the term around 1841 to describe the state of focused attention and altered consciousness induced by suggesting. Braid's work built upon earlier practices and theories from various traditions, including Franz Mesmer's work on 'animal magnetism.' Over time, hypnosis evolved from a theatrical performance art to a recognized therapeutic technique, especially after its adoption by the medical community. In the 20th century, hypnosis gained further prominence through the efforts of psychologists and psychiatrists, leading to its application in various fields such as pain management, psychotherapy, and personal development.

With rank #16,275, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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• 16273 receded
• 16274 pestilence
• 16275 hypnosis
• 16276 adrenaline
• 16277 cleverly
• 16278 indulgent
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