witchcraft

[wich-kraft]

noun

1. the art or practices of a witch; sorcery or magical influence; magic, especially for evil purposes.

   She was arrested on the charge of witchcraft in September of 1665.

   Some people believe the disease is caused by witchcraft or a curse.

2. the modern practice of magic as a spiritual observance, especially as associated with neopaganism or Wicca.

   The presence of witchcraft has increased greatly on college campuses in the last ten years.

witchcraft

/ ˈwɪtʃˌkrɑːft /

noun

1. the art or power of bringing magical or preternatural power to bear or the act or practice of attempting to do so

2. the influence of magic or sorcery

3. fascinating or bewitching influence or charm

witchcraft

1. Popularly believed to be the practice of black magic. Witches are known today as followers of Wicca, a pagan nature religion with roots in pre-Christian western Europe. Wicca is now undergoing a revival, especially in the United States and Great Britain.

Old misunderstandings and hysterical accusations have led to persecution of “witches,” most famously in the Salem witch trials of 1692.

Word History and Origins

Origin of witchcraft¹

First recorded before 950; Middle English wicchecraft, Old English wiccecræft; equivalent to witch + craft

Synonym Study

See magic.

Example Sentences

You’re more than allowed to believe him abominable, and maybe do some witchcraft so his hairline starts receding at an unprecedented rate.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Conspiracy theories about Lungu have spread across Zambia—from suggestions he isn’t really dead to rumors that Hichilema wants the corpse for witchcraft purposes.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Other signs of witchcraft listed in local records include not attending church and talking to animals, which were assumed to be a witch's familiar - meaning a supernatural creature helping the accused.

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If anything, it’s surged in recent years, due in part to the popularity of “The Conjuring” films and constant talk of devils and witchcraft on social media.

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"I know that killings of people with albinism happen especially at election time in Tanzania, when witchcraft beliefs intensify. That's why I don't take part in campaigns… I am so afraid."

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Related Words

• black magic 
• occult 
• voodoo