Meaning & Definition of word "Mesmerize"

Mesmerize

/ˈmɛzməˌraɪz/

verb:

  • 1. To hold the attention of someone to the exclusion of all else or to transfix them.
    • Example: The magician's performance seemed to mesmerize the entire audience.
  • 2. To spellbind or fascinate someone, as if under a hypnotic influence.
    • Example: She spoke with such passion that it mesmerized everyone in the room.
  • 3. To induce a state of hypnosis in someone.
    • Example: The therapist was able to mesmerize the patient with her soothing voice.
  • 4. To charm or fascinate in a surprising or enchanting way.
    • Example: The beauty of the sunset over the ocean mesmerized the travelers.

Etymology

Derived from the name Franz Anton Mesmer, an 18th-century physician who practiced animal magnetism.

Common Phrases and Expressions

mesmerizing performance:

A performance that captivates the audience completely.

mesmerized audience:

An audience that is completely absorbed and enchanted.

mesmerizing beauty:

A beauty that draws the attention and fascination of others.

Related Words

hypnosis:

A state of consciousness involving focused attention and reduced peripheral awareness.

fascination:

The power to fascinate or attract intensely.

Slang Meanings of mesmerize

Meaning: To completely capture someone's attention.

Example Sentence: The way he plays the guitar just mesmerizes everyone in the room.

Meaning: To be so interesting that one can't look away.

Example Sentence: Her storytelling mesmerizes us every time.