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Spellbind Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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spellbind

[หˆspษ›lหŒbaษชnd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

captivate

To hold the attention of (someone) as though by magic; fascinate.

Synonyms

captivate, enchant, entrance, mesmerize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
spellbind

Used when something or someone holds your attention completely and almost magically, often in performances or storytelling.

  • The magician's performance was so astonishing that it managed to spellbind the entire audience.
  • Her storytelling was so vivid and compelling, it spellbinds everyone who listens.
captivate

Used when something or someone attracts and holds your interest or attention because it is very appealing or charming.

  • The singer's voice captivated the audience from the very first note.
  • The story's interesting plot and vibrant characters captivated the readers.
enchant

Used when someone or something delights you and makes you feel magical, often associated with charm and beauty.

  • The beautiful garden seemed to enchant every visitor.
  • Her graceful dance performance enchanted everyone in the theater.
entrance

Used when something holds your entire attention and makes you feel lost in its beauty or wonder, often describing a dream-like state.

  • The stunning sunset seemed to entrance everyone watching.
  • The hypnotic rhythm of the music entrance the listeners into a state of calm.
mesmerize

Used when something or someone completely grabs your attention in a hypnotic way, often suggesting a trance-like fascination.

  • The dancer's graceful movements seemed to mesmerize the audience.
  • The intricate patterns in the artwork mesmerize anyone who looks at it.

Examples of usage

  • She was spellbound by his stories.
  • The magician spellbound the audience with his tricks.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Authors often use spellbinding narratives to draw readers into fantastical worlds, enhancing engagement.
  • Fairy tales frequently feature spellbinding elements like magical creatures and enchantments that captivate audiences of all ages.
  • Some famous works, like J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series, are described as spellbinding due to their intricate plots and magical themes.

Pop Culture

  • Many movies and performances are designed to spellbind audiences, using special effects, captivating stories, and charismatic actors.
  • Musical performances, especially those involving pyrotechnics and elaborate visuals, often leave audiences spellbound.
  • Magic shows create a spellbinding atmosphere, captivating spectators with illusions and sleight of hand.

Psychology

  • Spellbinding experiences can trigger the brainโ€™s reward system, releasing dopamine and enhancing enjoyment.
  • Being captivated by something can lead to a state of flow, where individuals lose track of time and become fully immersed.
  • Certain visual and auditory stimuli are known to have spellbinding effects, tapping into human emotions and memories.

Origin of 'spellbind'

Main points about word origin

  • The word combines 'spell,' which relates to magic, and 'bind,' meaning to tie or hold.
  • It originally referred to casting a spell that enchants or captivates someone.
  • The earliest usage in English dates back to the late 17th century, showcasing a fascination with magic.

The word 'spellbind' originated from the combination of 'spell' and 'bind', dating back to the early 19th century. The idea behind the word is to captivate or fascinate someone as if under a spell, hence the merging of the two words. The concept of being spellbound has been a part of folklore and storytelling for centuries, with the belief that certain words or actions could have a magical or hypnotic effect on others.

See also: spell, spellbook, spellbound, spelling.