enchant

verb

en·​chant in-ˈchant How to pronounce enchant (audio)
en-
enchanted; enchanting; enchants

transitive verb

1
: to influence by or as if by charms and incantation : bewitch
2
: to attract and move deeply : rouse to ecstatic admiration
the scene enchanted her to the point of tearsElinor Wylie
Choose the Right Synonym for enchant

attract, allure, charm, captivate, fascinate, enchant mean to draw another by exerting a powerful influence.

attract applies to any degree or kind of ability to exert influence over another.

students attracted by the school's locale

allure implies an enticing by what is fair, pleasing, or seductive.

an alluring smile

charm implies the power of casting a spell over the person or thing affected and so compelling a response

charmed by their hospitality

, but it may, like captivate, suggest no more than evoking delight or admiration.

her performances captivated audiences

fascinate suggests a magical influence and tends to stress the ineffectiveness of attempts to resist.

a story that continues to fascinate children

enchant is perhaps the strongest of these terms in stressing the appeal of the agent and the degree of delight evoked in the subject.

hopelessly enchanted by her beauty

Examples of enchant in a Sentence

The book has enchanted children for almost a century. The beauty of the place enchants.
Recent Examples on the Web The name alone hints at the romantic quality of the picturesque downtown area, which has enchanting gardens and charming storybook cottages. Megan Wood, Travel + Leisure, 17 Feb. 2024 On top of that, his style of playing was enchanting in its physicality. Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 9 Feb. 2024 But what's never changed is Taylor's enchanting ability to translate a memory — whether charmed or trying — into a moment that feels like yours. Allaire Nuss, EW.com, 6 Feb. 2024 These stunning pieces not only make a lovely centerpiece for your table this year but will continue to enchant guests for Thanksgivings to come. Jessica Copeland, Rolling Stone, 10 Nov. 2023 The blue-and-white azulejos are reflected in the sunbaked beaches and enchanting blue water of the Atlantic coast. Christine Chitnis, Vogue, 6 Feb. 2024 Sparks are flying over Taylor Swift in Washington, D.C., where the prospect of her endorsing President Joe Biden has enchanted White House aides and bred bad blood in some Republicans. Brendan Rascius, Miami Herald, 5 Feb. 2024 With enchanting Christmas markets, stunning lakeside views, and world-class shopping, this Swiss city is the ultimate place to explore during the holidays. Omenaa Boakye, Travel + Leisure, 14 Dec. 2023 The suite is decked out in jaw-dropping holiday designs and light treatments throughout, including enchanting light pillows, a light-up holiday village, a custom holiday light decorating station, a gingerbread bar, and more. Meghan Overdeep, Southern Living, 3 Nov. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'enchant.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French enchanter, from Latin incantare, from in- + cantare to sing — more at chant

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of enchant was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near enchant

Cite this Entry

“Enchant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/enchant. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

enchant

verb
en·​chant in-ˈchant How to pronounce enchant (audio)
1
: to influence by charms and magic : bewitch
2

More from Merriam-Webster on enchant

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