Mesmerize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฎ
mesmerize
[หmษzmษหraษชz ]
Definition
hypnotize
To hold the attention of (someone) in such a way as to take away their power of independent thought and action. To hypnotize or fascinate someone.
Synonyms
captivate, fascinate, hypnotize.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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mesmerize |
This word is often used when something holds someone's attention so much that they can't look away or think about anything else. It has a somewhat magical or enchanting connotation.
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hypnotize |
This word can be used in both literal and figurative contexts. Literally, it describes the act of putting someone into a trance-like state using hypnosis. Figuratively, it can describe something that captures someone's complete attention, but often with a slightly negative or manipulative implication.
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fascinate |
This word is used when something intrigues or interests someone to a great extent, often due to its complexity, novelty, or peculiarity.
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captivate |
This word is preferred when describing something or someone that attracts and holds the interest or attention of someone through charm, beauty, or excellence.
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Examples of usage
- She was mesmerized by the magician's performance.
- The audience was mesmerized by her beauty on stage.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'mesmerize'
The word 'mesmerize' originates from the name of Franz Mesmer, an Austrian physician with an interest in hypnosis. Mesmer believed that there was an invisible natural force possessed by all living things, which he called animal magnetism. He would use this force to induce a trance-like state in his patients, which he believed could cure various ailments. The term 'mesmerize' later came to be associated with this practice of inducing a state of trance or fascination.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranking #38,958, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.
- ...
- 38955 dishabille
- 38956 traipse
- 38957 waffling
- 38958 mesmerize
- 38959 muralist
- 38960 haughtiest
- 38961 denationalized
- ...