Spellbinding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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spellbinding

[ˈspɛlˌbaɪndɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

exciting

Capturing and holding one's attention as if by a spell; fascinating or enchanting.

Synonyms

captivating, enchanting, enthralling.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
spellbinding	Used to describe something that completely captures attention or fascination in a magical or stunning way. The magician's performance was spellbinding, leaving the audience in awe
captivating	Appropriate for describing something that attracts and holds interest or attention charmingly and irresistibly. Her captivating smile made everyone in the room feel welcome
enchanting	Best used for something that delights by being lovely or beautiful, often seems magical or fairy-tale like. The little village by the sea had an enchanting beauty that felt like a dream
enthralling	Ideal for describing something that holds one's attention completely and makes them feel deeply involved or absorbed. The story was so enthralling that I couldn't put the book down until I finished it

Examples of usage

The magician's performance was truly spellbinding, leaving the audience in awe.
The author's spellbinding storytelling kept readers on the edge of their seats.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

enchanting

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

Synonyms

enrapture, entrance, mesmerize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
spellbinding	Used to describe something that captures your attention so completely that you are almost in a trance. This word is often used for stories, performances, or sights that are incredibly captivating. The magician's performance was absolutely spellbinding. She gave a spellbinding speech that had everyone on the edge of their seats.
entrance	Describing a state where someone is so focused and absorbed by something that they are completely unaware of their surroundings. Often used for experiences that provoke deep contemplation or fascination. She was entranced by the beautiful painting. The storyteller's words entranced the young boy.
mesmerize	Describes a situation where someone is so fascinated by something that they can't look away. It has a slightly hypnotic nuance and is often used in more conversational contexts. The snake charmer’s act mesmerized the crowd. The city's night lights mesmerized him.
enrapture	This word describes a state of being filled with delight and intense pleasure. It is more often used in literature or formal speech to convey deep emotional engagement. The audience was enraptured by the orchestra’s performance. He was enraptured by the beauty of the countryside.

Examples of usage

The hypnotist spellbinding the audience with his mesmerizing tricks.
The singer's voice had the power to spellbind the listeners.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

Many authors use spellbinding narratives to draw readers into fantastical worlds, creating immersive experiences.
Spellbinding stories often include themes of magic, adventure, and personal transformation, capturing the imagination.

Performing Arts

In theater, spellbinding performances can leave audiences mesmerized, making them feel as if they’re part of the story.
Magicians often use spellbinding tricks to captivate their audience, making the impossible seem real.

Psychology

Research shows that when people are spellbound by something, their brains become highly engaged, enhancing memory retention.
Strong emotional responses to spellbinding content can lead to deeper connections to narratives or performances.

Pop Culture

The term is often used in reviews of films and books that evoke strong emotions or create extraordinary visuals.
Many famous characters, like wizards and witches in stories, are known for their spellbinding abilities and enchanting powers.

Origin of 'spellbinding'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the combination of 'spell', meaning a magical charm, and 'binding', meaning to hold or tie.
Its first known use dates back to the early 20th century, reflecting the fascination with magic and captivating art forms.

The term 'spellbinding' originated from the combination of 'spell' and 'binding', suggesting the act of binding someone with a spell or enchantment. The word has been used since the late 18th century to describe something captivating or enchanting, as if under a magical spell.