charisma

noun

cha·​ris·​ma kə-ˈriz-mə 

1

: a personal magic of leadership arousing special popular loyalty or enthusiasm for a public figure (such as a political leader)

His success was largely due to his charisma.

2

: a special magnetic charm or appeal

the charisma of a popular actor

Did you know?

The Greek word charisma means "favor" or "gift." It comes from the verb charizesthai ("to favor"), which in turn comes from the noun charis, meaning "grace." In English, charisma was originally used in Christian contexts to refer to a gift or power bestowed upon an individual by the Holy Spirit for the good of the Church—a sense that is now very rare. These days, we use the word to refer to social, rather than divine, grace. For instance, a leader with charisma may easily gain popular support, and a job applicant with charisma may shine in an interview.

Synonyms of charisma

• charm
• appeal
• attractiveness
• fascination
• attraction
• glamour

Examples of charisma in a Sentence

The candidate was lacking in charisma.

His success is largely due to his charisma.

Recent Examples on the Web

Newton’s charisma and Superman showmanship brought extra attention to his play that year. —Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 7 Jan. 2026

Philyaw’s Secret Lives of Church Ladies is one of my favorite collections of the last decade, and her podcast presence is a lesson in charisma. —Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 6 Jan. 2026

His platform was clear and attuned to voters’ mood; his social-media operation and field organizing were expert; his charisma was unremitting. —Molly Fischer, New Yorker, 1 Jan. 2026

The ‘Burbs is a series that is playful, a little creepy, and powered by Palmer’s natural charisma. —Okla Jones, Essence, 1 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Greek, favor, gift, from charizesthai to favor, from charis grace; akin to Greek chairein to rejoice — more at yearn

First Known Use

1930, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Podcast

Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!

Kids Definition

charisma

noun

cha·​ris·​ma kə-ˈriz-mə 

: a special charm or public appeal