Definition of charmnext
1
as in amulet
something worn or kept to bring good luck or keep away evil an old cap that I use as a charm for whenever I play softball

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
3
4
as in pendant
an ornament worn on a chain around the neck or wrist a dangling charm in the figure of a horse on her bracelet

Synonyms & Similar Words

charm

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word charm different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of charm are allure, attract, captivate, enchant, and fascinate. While all these words mean "to draw another by exerting a powerful influence," charm implies the power of casting a spell over the person or thing affected and so compelling a response, but it may, like captivate, suggest no more than evoking delight or admiration.

charmed by their hospitality
her performances captivated audiences

When could allure be used to replace charm?

Although the words allure and charm have much in common, allure implies an enticing by what is fair, pleasing, or seductive.

an alluring smile

When can attract be used instead of charm?

The words attract and charm are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, attract applies to any degree or kind of ability to exert influence over another.

students attracted by the school's locale

When might enchant be a better fit than charm?

While in some cases nearly identical to charm, enchant is perhaps the strongest of these terms in stressing the appeal of the agent and the degree of delight evoked in the subject.

hopelessly enchanted by her beauty

When would fascinate be a good substitute for charm?

The synonyms fascinate and charm are sometimes interchangeable, but fascinate suggests a magical influence and tends to stress the ineffectiveness of attempts to resist.

a story that continues to fascinate children

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of charm
Noun
Ironically, as Brian pointed out later, this became part of the charm of the place. — Jessica Craig-Martin, Vanity Fair, 10 Nov. 2026 Luckily, Pottery Barn’s plaid shop is packed with festive decor that captures the same nostalgic charm my mom loves. — Kate Boswell, Southern Living, 7 Nov. 2026
Verb
The root of Wilson’s resentment is that he was charmed by the pods version of Wilnie, who was temporarily free from real-life concerns and whose only job was to banter with him through a wall. — Emma Sharpe, Vulture, 4 Nov. 2026 But competition is tough, and few serious investors are charmed by candlelight meetings. — Charlie Campbell, Time, 20 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for charm
Recent Examples of Synonyms for charm
Noun
  • Daniels wrote that El-Sabarum sold candles in a variety of shapes and colors, herbs, special oils, and amulets.
    — Adam Harrington, CBS News, 27 Oct. 2026
  • My curiosity around amulets and talismans is something of a contradiction.
    — Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 16 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Fahey said the appeal reflects a broader shift in Democratic messaging, away from making Trump the central issue and toward challenging him to deliver on his own economic promises.
    — Barnini Chakraborty, The Washington Examiner, 12 Nov. 2026
  • Amid all the record’s babbling, cooing, and shouting, this direct appeal feels like finally meeting daine’s eye across a crowded room.
    — Aimee Cliff, Pitchfork, 11 Nov. 2026
Noun
  • Everything about it feels hauntingly beautiful, as though the island is quietly performing some kind of spell in the sea.
    — Avantika Chaturvedi, Travel + Leisure, 9 Nov. 2026
  • This seemed to cast a horological spell, in a moment felt almost spiritual.
    — Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 8 Nov. 2026
Noun
  • Its collection runs the gamut from traditional engagement rings to sculptural bracelets, delicate earrings, and modern pendants, with an appreciation for unexpected settings and silhouettes that stray from convention.
    — Camila Quimper, Footwear News, 9 Nov. 2026
  • The pendants have a rich provenance, moving from the ownership of the Landgraves of Hesse-Kassel, the Barings, and the Rothschilds.
    — Hikmat Mohammed, ARTnews.com, 9 Nov. 2026
Verb
  • Mitchell Kohrmann was fascinated by the Cannonball record runs between New York City and Los Angeles, but decided to make things more interesting by choosing the slowest possible car.
    — Stephen Edelstein, The Drive, 1 Nov. 2026
  • Those copious field reports, sworn affidavits, and telegrams signed, alarmingly, HOOVER, would fascinate, enrage, and unmoor me.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 26 Oct. 2026
Verb
  • The 6-foot-3, 210-pound Harding possesses elite size, sure hands and the ability to get outside.
    — Patrick Z. McGavin, Chicago Tribune, 7 Nov. 2026
  • Police commander in chief Marek Boron, added that the perpetrator and his family possessed weapons, specifically, sports firearms.
    — Somayeh Malekian, ABC News, 7 Nov. 2026
Noun
  • For astrologer Lauren Ash, intentional jewelry serves as a daily talisman.
    — Lisa Stardust, Vogue, 5 Nov. 2026
  • Godfrey, who launched her namesake collection in 2018, has emerged as a distinctive voice in the independent fine jewelry market, known for her bold geometry, colorful gemstone inlays and modern interpretations of ancient talismans.
    — Thomas Waller, Footwear News, 29 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Firstman is recognized by a musclebound music producer dining nearby with a woman of equitable attractiveness.
    — Matt Donnelly, Variety, 4 Nov. 2026
  • Anwar is trying to highlight Malaysia’s attractiveness to tech and AI companies, in particular by highlighting the country as a neutral and non-aligned home for investment.
    — Jay Ganglani, Fortune, 26 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Charm.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/charm. Accessed 12 Nov. 2026.

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