mesmerize
Americanverb (used with object)
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to completely capture the attention of; spellbind; fascinate.
This young pianist has mesmerized audiences with her incredible technique and range of musical expression.
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to hypnotize or put into a trancelike state; cause (someone) to be open to the power of suggestion or unable to act on their own.
According to ancient myth, the song of the sea nymphs mesmerized sailors, drawing them into disastrous waters.
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to cause or compel through fascination or by hypnotizing.
Advertising can easily mesmerize us into thinking that wealth is the same as money and possessions.
In this game scene, the warriors do not know they’ve been mesmerized into the service of the enemy.
verb
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a former word for hypnotize
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to hold (someone) as if spellbound
Other Word Forms
- mesmerization noun
- mesmerizer noun
Etymology
Origin of mesmerize
First recorded in 1820–30; back formation from mesmerism
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Played by a mesmerizing Teyana Taylor, Inez holds you rapt throughout this sweeping New York story of love and survival, motherhood and gentrification.
From New York Times
Recently, on a cold night, she grabbed her walker and sat with her son in front of a monitor, snuggled in a blanket and mesmerized by scenes so familiar to her.
From New York Times
With Irving, the franchise can sell the promise of a star tandem leading a mesmerizing offense, then set about pursuing a few talented role players to handle the dirty work and raise spirits.
From Washington Post
Like so many of these photos, the picture channels the mesmerizing power of water.
From Washington Post
And I remember being mesmerized by the lace rosettes on Marten’s shoes, and the ostrich feather fan in Oopjen’s right hand.
From Washington Post
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
