beguile

[ bih-gahyl ]

verb (used with object)

, be·guiled, be·guil·ing.

1. to influence by trickery, flattery, etc.; mislead; delude.

   Synonyms: cheat, deceive

2. to take away from by cheating or deceiving (usually followed by of ):

   to be beguiled of money.

3. to charm or divert:

   a multitude of attractions to beguile the tourist.

   Synonyms: entertain, amuse

4. to pass (time) pleasantly:

   beguiling the long afternoon with a good book.

beguile

/ bɪˈɡaɪl /

verb

1. to charm; fascinate
2. to delude; influence by slyness
3. often foll byof or out of to deprive (someone) of something by trickery; cheat (someone) of
4. to pass pleasantly; while away

Derived Forms

• beˈguilement, noun
• beˈguiler, noun

Other Words From

• be·guilement noun
• be·guiler noun
• unbe·guiled adjective
• unbe·guiling adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of beguile¹

First recorded in 1175–1225, beguile is from the Middle English word bigilen. See be-, guile

Example Sentences

His campaign would like to mitigate that by allowing him to beguile a few women with his suave charm.

From Salon

A seductive dance in a see-through embroidered shirt, crimson ruff and gold leather belt allows George to beguile the king.

From Los Angeles Times

In the years since, the pinwheels have continued to fascinate, beguile and confound us.

From Scientific American

English Heritage is not alone in its efforts to beguile visitors with historical treats.

From Salon

The story that unfolds is buoyant, charming, delectably wistful and quietly earnest — not to mention, British enough to beguile even the subset of Americans who cuddle up to “The Great British Bake Off” on a Sunday afternoon.

From New York Times

Related Words

• amuse
• engross
• entertain
• entice
• rizz up
• seduce
• tickle