mesmerize

American  

[mez-muh-rahyz, mes-] / ˈmɛz məˌraɪz, ˈmɛs- /

especially British, mesmerise

verb (used with object)

mesmerized, mesmerizing

1. to completely capture the attention of; spellbind; fascinate.

   This young pianist has mesmerized audiences with her incredible technique and range of musical expression.

2. to hypnotize or put into a trancelike state; cause (someone) to be open to the power of suggestion or unable to act on their own.

   According to ancient myth, the song of the sea nymphs mesmerized sailors, drawing them into disastrous waters.

3. to cause or compel through fascination or by hypnotizing.

   Advertising can easily mesmerize us into thinking that wealth is the same as money and possessions.

   In this game scene, the warriors do not know they’ve been mesmerized into the service of the enemy.

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mesmerize British  

/ ˈmɛzməˌraɪz /

verb

1. a former word for hypnotize

2. to hold (someone) as if spellbound

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Other Word Forms

• mesmerization noun
• mesmerizer noun

Etymology

Origin of mesmerize

First recorded in 1820–30; back formation from mesmerism

Explanation

You meet someone and you can’t take your eyes off them, like you are connected by an invisible cord and can’t break free. Those kinds of people have the power to mesmerize, holding your attention like you’re under hypnosis. The word mesmerize comes from the last name of 18th century German physician Franz Mesmer, who believed that all people and objects are pulled together by a strong magnetic force, later called mesmerism. If you ever start to feel mesmerized, maybe it’s because you find someone fascinating, or maybe you’ve been hypnotized by a magician. Hard to tell from here.

Example Sentences

But in the years since, Keegan has opted for a path more befitting an author whose tales often mesmerize by thwarting expectations.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 14, 2023

Still there is the natural arm talent that can mesmerize with effortless form and quick release.

From Washington Times • Aug. 18, 2023

I’m referring to Ichiro, the Sultan of Slap, who used to mesmerize teammates and foes alike with his daily power display in batting practice.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 1, 2023

This was the first domestic event since CNN’s creation in 1980 to mesmerize the nation with saturation coverage by cable television.

From Washington Post • Apr. 7, 2023

Garvey’s dance seemed to mesmerize Peter, who watched closely, following every movement.

From "Touching Spirit Bear" by Ben Mikaelsen

Related Words

• enthrall
• fascinate
• hypnotize
• stupefy