spellbind

[spel-bahynd]

verb (used with object)

spellbound, spellbinding 

1. to hold or bind by or as if by a spell; enchant; entrance; fascinate.

spellbind

/ ˈspɛlˌbaɪnd /

verb

1. (tr) to cause to be spellbound; entrance or enthral

Other Word Forms

• spellbindingly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of spellbind¹

1800–10; spell ² + bind, deduced from spellbound

Example Sentences

As shameful as you may find bullfighting, the details are what drive this spellbinding, immersive work.

From Los Angeles Times

Opera has turned to cinema for help with “Rigoletto,” on the surface a spellbinding drama.

From Los Angeles Times

Between “Snooze” and “Crybaby,” she was lifted on wires, revealing a gauze train in the shape of a chrysalis, to spellbinding effect.

From Los Angeles Times

I wasn’t alone in finding the runway spellbinding.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite those challenges, Hannah captured spellbinding, stripped back versions of rarely-played tracks like Vampire Blues, If You Got Love and Prime Of Life.

From BBC

Related Words

• beguile 
• charm 
• mesmerize