hypnotism

American  

[hip-nuh-tiz-uhm] / ˈhɪp nəˌtɪz əm /

noun

1. the science dealing with the induction of hypnosis.

2. the act of hypnotizing.

3. hypnosis.

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hypnotism British  

/ ˈhɪpnəˌtɪzəm /

noun

1. the scientific study and practice of hypnosis

2. the process of inducing hypnosis

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• hypnotist
  noun
• hypnotistic
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of hypnotism

Shortening of neuro-hypnotism, term introduced by British surgeon James Braid (1795–1860) in 1842; see hypnotic, -ism

Explanation

The act of putting someone into a hypnotic trance is called hypnotism, and it's usually done by a hypnotist. Some doctors use hypnotism to help patients break bad habits and addictions like smoking. There are also hypnotists who work as entertainers, using hypnotism to put volunteers into mesmerized states and then suggesting they do silly things to make the audience laugh. The original term was neuro-hypnotism, coined in 1842 by Dr. James Braid, who was an early researcher and practitioner of hypnotism.

Example Sentences

In the popular consciousness, hypnotism is the stuff of vampires, side shows and watch-waving therapists.

From New York Times • Aug. 15, 2022

He had a medical license, but participated in many fringe-y practices, like using hypnotism on his patients and “treating” people by mail.

From Slate • Jul. 30, 2021

The plot also includes a disturbing case of mass hypnotism and mind control.

From Washington Post • Jun. 30, 2021

Dr. Franz Anton Mesmer accidentally discovers hypnotism while treating a blind child.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 11, 2020

Perhaps he was healing her with his slime—for all the fishes are said to go to the Tench for medicine—or perhaps it was by touch or massage or hypnotism.

From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White