Etymology:
Meaning:
To captivate or enchant someone with wonder or delight.
Origin:
The Latin word fascinum originally referred to the evil eye, a malevolent force believed to be cast by a person with a jealous or envious gaze. It was thought that the evil eye could cause harm or misfortune to those who were targeted by it.
Over time, the meaning of fascinum evolved to include any kind of charm or enchantment. It was often used in the context of magic or witchcraft, and was thought to be able to control or influence the minds of others.
In English, the word "fascinate" first appeared in the 16th century, borrowing its meaning from the Latin word. It quickly gained popularity as a way to describe the feeling of wonder and delight that one experiences when encountering something extraordinary or captivating.
Today, the word "fascinate" is used in a wide variety of contexts, from describing the beauty of nature to the allure of a captivating story or performance. It is a powerful word that can convey the sense of wonder and excitement that we feel when we are confronted with something truly exceptional.
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