mesmerize
|mes-mer-ize|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈmɛzməˌraɪz/
🇬🇧
/ˈmɛzməraɪz/
captivate
Etymology
Etymology Information
'mesmerize' originates from the name of Franz Mesmer, an 18th-century German physician who developed a theory of animal magnetism.
Historical Evolution
'mesmerize' was derived from the French word 'mesmériser,' which was based on Mesmer's name and theories.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it referred specifically to Mesmer's techniques, but over time it evolved to mean 'to captivate or fascinate.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to hold the attention of someone to the exclusion of all else or so as to transfix them.
The magician's performance mesmerized the audience.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45