spellbind

American  

[spel-bahynd] / ˈspɛlˌbaɪnd /

verb (used with object)

spellbound, spellbinding

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

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spellbind British  

/ ˈspɛlˌbaɪnd /

verb

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

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Other Word Forms

• spellbindingly adverb

Etymology

Origin of spellbind

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

Example Sentences

Form and content, the visual and the physical, create art’s spellbinding double helix.

From Los Angeles Times

Formally, the spellbinding property is named the Lawrence and Martha Joseph Residence and Apartments, named after the Disney artist and his wife who obsessively spent three decades building it.

From Los Angeles Times

But be sure to revisit Rousseau and the secrets revealed when his paintings return to their spellbinding groupings on the Barnes Foundation’s walls.

From The Wall Street Journal

It is one of many moments that feel like a showcase for Thompson’s spellbinding screen presence, DaCosta seeming to capture something secret and special about her friend.

From Los Angeles Times

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

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• beguile
• charm
• mesmerize