mesmerism
mesmerism Lexical Profile
mesmerism Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A historical system of therapeutic practice, associated with Franz Anton Mesmer, based on the belief that an invisible natural force ('animal magnetism') could be channeled to induce a trance-like state and heal patients; broadly, hypnotism.
"During the nineteenth century, public demonstrations of mesmerism fascinated both literary figures and medical researchers."
Compelling, spellbinding charm or fascination that holds someone's complete attention.
"The orator spoke with a quiet mesmerism that held the entire auditorium in silence."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the late 18th century via French mesmérisme, named after Franz Anton Mesmer (1734–1815), an Austrian physician who popularized the theory of 'animal magnetism' as a therapeutic force before it evolved into modern hypnosis.