Main Entry:

in·can·ta·tion

Pronunciation:

\ˌin-ˌkan-ˈtā-shən\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English incantacioun, from Middle French incantation, from Late Latin incantation-, incantatio, from Latin incantare to enchant — more at enchant

Date:

14th century

: a use of spells or verbal charms spoken or sung as a part of a ritual of magic ; also : a written or recited formula of words designed to produce a particular effect

— in·can·ta·tion·al \-shnəl, -shə-n^əl\ adjective

— in·can·ta·to·ry \in-ˈkan-tə-ˌtōr-ē, -ˌtȯr-\ adjective