Legerdemain Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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legerdemain

[หŒlษ›dส’ษ™rdษ™หˆmeษชn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

magic trick

Legerdemain refers to skillful use of one's hands when performing conjuring tricks. It often implies a degree of deception and dexterity that is common in the profession of a magician or illusionist.

Synonyms

conjuring, illusion, sleight of hand.

Examples of usage

  • The magician's legerdemain left the audience in awe.
  • Her quick fingers executed the legerdemain flawlessly.
  • He amazed everyone with his legerdemain during the magic show.

Translations

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Origin of 'legerdemain'

The word 'legerdemain' originates from the French term 'lรฉger de main', meaning 'light of hand'. This phrase refers to the dexterity required in performing tricks that deceive the eye. The term was adopted into English in the early 17th century and has since been used to describe not only the physical skill involved in magic but also the cunning and artfulness associated with deception in various contexts. As magic evolved, so did the applications of the term, which now encompasses not just visual tricks but any clever deception. Over the centuries, 'legerdemain' has come to represent a blend of artistry and trickery, echoing the longstanding human fascination with illusion and the unknown.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,163 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.