hypnotic
UK: /hɪpˈnɒt.ɪk/ | US: /hɪpˈnɑː.t̬ɪk/
adj. relating to or producing hypnosis; inducing a trance-like state
adj. captivating or mesmerizing in a way that resembles hypnosis
n. a substance or agent that induces sleep or a hypnotic state
hypnotic = hypno<sleep> + tic<adjective suffix>
- hypno: From Greek hypnos (ὕπνος), meaning "sleep." This root appears in words like hypnosis (a sleep-like state) and hypnopedia (sleep-learning).
- tic: A suffix of Greek origin (-tikos) used to form adjectives, often indicating a relationship or pertaining to something (e.g., dramatic, chaotic).
Etymology Origin:
The word hypnotic traces back to the Greek hypnos (sleep) and the suffix -tic, which denotes a connection to the root. The term originally referred to sleep-inducing effects but expanded metaphorically to describe anything mesmerizing or trance-like. The logic is straightforward: hypno anchors the core idea of sleep, while -tic transforms it into an adjective, capturing both literal and figurative meanings.
The doctor prescribed a hypnotic drug to treat her insomnia.
His voice had a hypnotic quality that held the audience spellbound.
The flickering candlelight created a hypnotic atmosphere in the room.
Some species of fish exhibit hypnotic behavior when exposed to certain sounds.
The repetitive rhythm of the drums was almost hypnotic.