hypnotism

[ hip-nuh-tiz-uhm ]

noun

1. the science dealing with the induction of hypnosis.
2. the act of hypnotizing.
3. hypnosis.

hypnotism

/ ˈhɪpnəˌtɪzəm /

noun

1. the scientific study and practice of hypnosis
2. the process of inducing hypnosis

Other Words From

• hypno·tist noun
• hypno·tistic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of hypnotism¹

Shortening of neuro-hypnotism, term introduced by British surgeon James Braid (1795–1860) in 1842; hypnotic, -ism

Example Sentences

She tried quitting on several occasions using various methods from nicotine patches to hypnotism, before she managed to stop smoking for a nine-month period in 1979 and 1980, the court said.

From Seattle Times

But, co-presented by the National Asian American Theater Company and directed by Chowdhury with a swooning hypnotism reminiscent of the best works of neorealism, it creates a strong enough center for the rest of its disparate parts to hold.

From New York Times

What he was not interested in was hypnotism and prehistoric animals, as some pop-culture articles indicated.

From Literature

In the popular consciousness, hypnotism is the stuff of vampires, side shows and watch-waving therapists.

From New York Times

That is the ambition of the makers of “Hyprov,” a marriage of improv comedy and hypnotism that was workshopped here this summer in advance of its New York premiere at the Daryl Roth Theater on Aug. 12.

From New York Times