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theurgy

noun

the·​ur·​gy ˈthē-(ˌ)ər-jē How to pronounce theurgy (audio)
: the art or technique of compelling or persuading a god or beneficent or supernatural power to do or refrain from doing something
theurgic adjective
or theurgical

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin theurgia, from Late Greek theourgia, from theourgos miracle worker, from Greek the- + ergon work — more at work

First Known Use

circa 1569, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of theurgy was circa 1569

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Cite this Entry

“Theurgy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theurgy. Accessed 27 Nov. 2025.

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