fascinate
UK: ˈfæsɪneɪt | US: ˈfæsəneɪt
vt. to attract and hold the attention of someone intensely
vt. to captivate or enchant someone by charm or skill
vi. (archaic) to cast a spell or bewitch
fascinate = fascin<bewitch> + ate<verb suffix>
- fascin (from Latin fascinare, meaning "to bewitch" or "to cast a spell")
- ate (a verb-forming suffix indicating action or process)
Etymology Origin:
The word "fascinate" traces back to the Latin fascinare, derived from fascinum (a spell or charm). In ancient Roman culture, fascinum referred to both literal witchcraft and the metaphorical "magic" of irresistible attraction. Over time, the term evolved in English to describe the power of captivating someone’s attention, losing its supernatural connotation but retaining its intensity.
The magician’s tricks never fail to fascinate the audience.
She was fascinated by the intricate patterns of the coral reef.
Ancient myths about dragons continue to fascinate children.
His ability to solve complex problems quickly fascinates his colleagues.
The documentary on space exploration fascinated viewers worldwide.