spellbind
|spell-bind|
B2
/ˈspɛlˌbaɪnd/
captivate
Etymology
Etymology Information
'spellbind' originates from the combination of 'spell' and 'bind', where 'spell' meant 'a magical formula' and 'bind' meant 'to tie or fasten'.
Historical Evolution
'spellbind' evolved from the Old English word 'spellian' meaning 'to tell' and 'bindan' meaning 'to bind', eventually forming the modern English word 'spellbind'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to bind with a spell', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to captivate or fascinate'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to hold the complete attention of someone as though by magic; fascinate.
The magician's performance managed to spellbind the entire audience.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39