witching

[ wich-ing ]

noun

1. the use or practice of witchcraft.
2. fascination; charm; enchantment.

adjective

1. of, characterized by, or suitable for sorcery or black magic:

   a witching potion.

2. enchanting; fascinating.

witching

/ ˈwɪtʃɪŋ /

adjective

1. relating to or appropriate for witchcraft
2. rare.
   bewitching

noun

1. witchcraft; magic

Derived Forms

• ˈwitchingly, adverb

Other Words From

• witching·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of witching¹

before 1000; Middle English wicching (noun and adj.), Old English wiccung (noun), derivative of wiccian to practice witchcraft. See witch, -ing ¹, -ing ²

Example Sentences

The witching hour has begun, a disquieting moment for them to have nothing to do.

From Los Angeles Times

As the witching hour approached, a buzzing crowd mingled, played themed character games and snagged official “Iron Flame” merch as they waited to pick up their limited-edition hardcovers at midnight.

From Los Angeles Times

The expiry of quarterly derivatives contracts tied to stocks, index options and futures, also known as triple witching, later in the day is expected to keep markets volatile.

From Reuters

The expiry of quarterly derivatives contracts tied to stocks, index options and futures, also known as "triple witching", later in the day is expected to keep markets volatile.

From Reuters

Dusk is the witching hour at Accra Zoo.

From BBC

Related Words

• black magic
• occult
• voodoo