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

While numerous cultures and spiritual movements have throughout history long attempted to commune with the dead, a séance, says Lisa Morton, author of “Calling the Spirits: A History of Séances,” is a relatively recent occurrence.

From Los Angeles Times

“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.

From Los Angeles Times

Welcome to “Phasmagorica,” what composer-turned-magician-turned-spiritual explorer BC Smith describes as “a séance reimagined as art.”

From Los Angeles Times

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

From Los Angeles Times

While Smith has not conducted a Magic Castle séance, he has — and will — orchestrate what he refers to as a “theatrical séance,” for which he is present as a storyteller.

From Los Angeles Times