Spellbound Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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spellbound

[ˈspɛlbaʊnd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

feeling

Filled with wonder and delight, as if under a spell.

Synonyms

captivated, enchanted, entranced.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
spellbound	Repetition of the first entry: Use in situations where someone is so fascinated or delighted by something that they are unable to pay attention to anything else. She was spellbound by the magician's performance The audience sat spellbound throughout the entire play
enchanted	Best used when describing a magical or spell-like charm that evokes delight or fascination, often with a fairytale or whimsical quality. She felt enchanted by the serene beauty of the garden The enchanted forest was full of wonder and mystery
captivated	Apply this word when someone is held by deep interest, charm, or attraction, typically in a positive manner. He was captivated by her beauty The children were captivated by the storyteller's tales
entranced	Ideal for describing someone who is absorbed or mesmerized, often to the point of losing awareness of their surroundings. He was entranced by the pianist's virtuosic playing The dancers had the audience entranced with their performance

Examples of usage

I was spellbound by the magician's performance.
The mesmerizing music left the audience spellbound.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

action

To hold the complete attention of someone as though by magic or enchantment.

Synonyms

enchant, fascinate, mesmerize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
spellbound	Use to describe a state of being so captivated or fascinated by something that all other thoughts fade away. Often used for storytelling, performances, or magical experiences. The children were spellbound by the magician's tricks She read the novel late into the night, completely spellbound
fascinate	Use to describe strong interest or curiosity about something that attracts attention. Often used for topics, activities, or phenomena that deeply engage the mind. Her stories of travel and adventure fascinated him Science documentaries always fascinate young learners
enchant	Use to describe something that delights and captivates, often with a magical or fairy-tale quality. Ideal for romantic or whimsical settings. The garden was enchanting in the moonlight He was enchanted by her sweet voice and gentle nature
mesmerize	Use to describe a hypnotic or spell-like effect, where someone is so absorbed that they can't look away. Often carries a sense of a powerful, almost magical influence. The dancer's movements were so graceful that they mesmerized the audience He was mesmerized by the swirling patterns in the kaleidoscope

Examples of usage

The storyteller spellbound the children with her tales.
Her beauty spellbound him from the moment he saw her.

Translations

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

Origin of 'spellbound'

The word 'spellbound' originated in the early 19th century, combining 'spell' with 'bound' to convey the idea of being bound by a spell or enchantment. The concept of being captivated or entranced has been a part of human storytelling and folklore for centuries, with magical spells and charms playing a significant role in various cultures.

See also: spell, spellbind, spellbook, spelling.