charm

¹charm

noun \ˈchärm\

Definition of CHARM

1

a : the chanting or reciting of a magic spell : incantation b : a practice or expression believed to have magic power

2

: something worn about the person to ward off evil or ensure good fortune : amulet

3

a : a trait that fascinates, allures, or delights b : a physical grace or attraction —used in plural <her feminine charms> c : compelling attractiveness <the island possessed great charm>

4

: a small ornament worn on a bracelet or chain

5

: a fundamental quark that has an electric charge of +²⁄₃ and a measured energy of approximately 1.5 GeV; also : the flavor characterizing this particle

— charm·less \-ləs\ adjective

Examples of CHARM

1. He keeps a horseshoe as a good luck charm.
2. He fell under the spell of her charms.
3. The resort has many charms.
4. The inn has a quaint charm.
5. The island possesses great charm.
6. The new curtains add charm to the room.
7. The seaside location is a big part of the house's charm.
8. He won her over with his charm.

Origin of CHARM

Middle English charme, from Anglo-French, from Latin carmen song, from canere to sing — more at chant

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to CHARM

Synonyms: amulet, fetish (also fetich), mascot, mojo, periapt, phylactery, talisman

Antonyms: hoodoo, jinx

Related Words: gris-gris (also grigri), juju, philter, toadstone; emblem, symbol, token, totem

Near Antonyms: curse, hex, spell

see all synonyms and antonyms

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Rhymes with CHARM

arm, barm, farm, harm, smarm