Conjure

/ˈkɒn.dʒər/

Meaning & Definition

verb
To summon (a spirit or ghost) by invocation or incantation.
The magician attempted to conjure a spirit from the other side.
To create or bring to mind as if by magic.
The novel conjures a vivid image of life in the 18th century.
To call upon (a person) to appear, often through magic or a ceremony.
The priestess was said to conjure the ancient gods during the ritual.
To perform tricks of illusion; to perform as a magician.
He learned to conjure illusions that amazed the audience.
To cause something to happen, often unexpectedly.
Her words seemed to conjure a sense of nostalgia in everyone present.

Etymology

From Middle English 'conjuren', from Old French 'conjurer', from Latin 'conjurare', meaning 'to swear together'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

conjure up
To evoke a memory or image.
conjure a spell
To perform a ritual to invoke magical effects.
conjure something from thin air
To create something out of nothing.

Related Words

magic
The power of apparently influencing the course of events by using mysterious or supernatural forces.
illusion
A thing that is or is likely to be wrongly perceived or interpreted.

Slang Meanings

To fabricate a story or idea out of thin air.
He just conjured that excuse to avoid the meeting.
To create an impressive appearance or effect quickly.
She conjured a party atmosphere with just a few decorations.