Bewitching

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /bəˈwɪt͡ʃɪŋ/

Definitions

1. Possessing a mesmerizing charm that captivates and enchants individuals
2. Exhibiting an enchanting allure that deeply fascinates and charms those who encounter it
3. Having an irresistible and magical appeal that holds attention and delight

Etymology: "Bewitching" is formed from "bewitch" plus the suffix "-ing". The verb "bewitch" was built in Middle English from the prefix "be-", which here carries the sense of affecting someone thoroughly, and "witch", an existing word for a person practising magic. So the verb originally meant to cast a spell over someone, and the adjective simply describes something capable of doing that. The suffix is the ordinary "-ing" that English attaches to verbs to produce forms describing a quality or activity, so "bewitching" literally means something that bewitches. The sense has moved from the supernatural to the social: a bewitching smile or voice no longer implies sorcery, only that it holds attention completely.

Synonyms: enchanting, captivating

Antonyms: unattractive