Incantate

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

1. To recite or chant words of magic or a spell in a ritual manner, often in a solemn or rhythmic voice
2. To intone a magical formula aloud, typically as part of a mystical or ceremonial practice meant to produce an effect
3. To sing or speak charms and spells over someone or something in the belief that the words hold supernatural power

Etymology: Incantate comes from Latin "incantare," meaning to chant or enchant, built from "in-" plus "cantare," to sing. English first recorded it in 1623, and the Latin form it borrowed is the past participle "incantatus," which is why the English verb looks like a finished participle rather than a plain stem. The verb sat alongside its close relatives "enchant" and "incant," all sprouting from the same Latin singing root. The word's sense stayed close to its literal origin. A Latin incantator was a singer of charms, and the English verb keeps that picture of spoken or sung formulas delivered over someone or something. Its doublet "enchant" took a different route through Old French, which is why the two English words look so unlike each other despite sharing a parent.

Synonyms: chant, intone, recite