sorcery
UK: ˈsɔːsəri | US: ˈsɔːrsəri
n. the use of magic, especially black magic; witchcraft
n. supernatural power or influence attributed to spells or rituals
sorcery = sorcer<magician> + y<noun suffix>
- sorcer (from Old French sorcier, meaning "magician," derived from Latin sortiarius "one who casts lots," from sors "lot, fate")
- y (noun-forming suffix indicating a practice or state, from Latin -ia via Old French -ie)
Etymology Origin:
The word sorcery traces back to Latin sortiarius, referring to someone who divines fate by casting lots (sors). Over time, it evolved in Old French (sorcier) to denote a magician, eventually entering English with the suffix -y to signify the practice of magic. The term reflects the historical association of magic with divination and supernatural control over destiny.
The villagers accused her of sorcery after the crops mysteriously withered.
Ancient texts describe sorcery as a forbidden art.
He claimed to possess sorcery that could summon spirits.
The king outlawed sorcery, fearing its dark influence.
Legends speak of sorcery used to build impossible structures overnight.