séance

[sey-ahns]

noun

1. a meeting in which a spiritualist attempts to communicate with the spirits of the dead.

2. a session or sitting, as of a class or organization.

seance

/ ˈseɪɑ̃ns, -ɑːns /

noun

1. a meeting at which spiritualists attempt to receive messages from the spirits of the dead

2. a meeting of a society

Spelling Note

See resume ².

Word History and Origins

Origin of séance¹

1795–1805; < French: session, equivalent to sé-, base of seoir to sit ¹ (< Latin sedēre ) + -ance -ance

Word History and Origins

Origin of séance¹

C19: from French, literally: a sitting, from Old French seoir to sit, from Latin sedēre

Example Sentences

Composer-turned-magician-turned-spiritual guide BC Smith is behind ‘Phasmagorica,’ an event that attempts to create the feel of a vintage séance.

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The film, to be released nationwide on Friday by Neon, plays less like a documentary than a séance in which Orwell’s ghost watches his own warnings play out: urgent, relentless, immersive as a nightmare.

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It is relevant to point out that Smith is also a magician, a member of the Magic Castle, home itself to a popular séance.

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“The séance comes along, and not only is it a group activity, but it suggests that anyone can communicate with the spirits of the dead,” Morton says.

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She, too, appreciated the historical emphasis, specifically the way a musician performs after the séance as guests mingle with one another and share their experience.

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