Bewitched is a word that is often used to describe a state of being under a spell or charm. It is a term that has been used in literature, movies, and popular culture for many years. But what exactly does it mean, and where does it come from? In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of the word “bewitched.”
Definitions
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, bewitched means “to cast a spell over, to attract or interest greatly, or to enchant.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “to be under the influence of a spell, to be fascinated, or to be charmed.”
Origin
The word “bewitched” has its origins in Old English, where it was spelled “bewiccian.” The word “bewiccian” meant to practice witchcraft or sorcery. The word “bewitched” evolved from this over time and came to mean being under the influence of a spell or charm.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of “bewitched” is relatively consistent across different dictionaries. It generally refers to being under the influence of a spell or charm, or being fascinated or enchanted by something.
Associations
The word “bewitched” is often associated with magic, spells, and witchcraft. It is also associated with being under the influence of something or someone, such as being under the spell of love.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for “bewitched” include enchanted, charmed, fascinated, captivated, and spellbound.
Antonyms
Antonyms for “bewitched” include unimpressed, uninterested, indifferent, and unaffected.
The same root words
The root word of “bewitched” is “witch,” which comes from the Old English word “wicca.” Other words that share this root include “witchcraft,” “witchery,” and “witching hour.”
Example Sentences
Here are some examples of how the word “bewitched” might be used in a sentence:
- She was completely bewitched by the handsome stranger she met at the party.
- The audience was bewitched by the magician’s amazing tricks.
- The old house had a bewitched quality that made people uneasy.
- The young girl believed that she had been bewitched by a witch in the forest.
- The prince was bewitched by the evil sorceress and could not resist her charms.