DUENDE Synonyms: 41 Similar and Opposite Words

duende

noun

dü-ˈen-(ˌ)dā

Definition of duende

as in appeal

the power of irresistible attraction even as a child, she had an unmistakable duende that attracted the attention of passersby

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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 duende That involved the special forces paying due heed to Indigenous cosmology which suggested a malign shapeshifting being known as a duende was conspiring to hide the children from their would-be rescuers. — Matthew Carey, Deadline, 28 Aug. 2025 In some of its most memorable reporting, former host Maria Celeste Arrarás and the team of reporters shared stories of duendes lurking in trees in Central America, brujas voladoras captured on camera by a shaky camcorder, and UFO or alien sightings. — Alex Zaragoza, Los Angeles Times, 15 Sep. 2023 Charisma, class, and style all have something to do with duende. — Paul Daugherty, The Enquirer, 3 Sep. 2021 Which means that, for a dancer, duende is not only a mystical inspiration. — Jennifer Homans, The New Yorker, 30 Dec. 2019 Krug is no Orr, because no one can recreate that time, that talent that duende, but the winning rush was of near-No. — BostonGlobe.com, 23 Nov. 2019

Recent Examples of Synonyms for duende

Noun

Tarkowski slid in from behind to stop a certain goal, with United’s penalty appeals waved away.

— Laurie Whitwell, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026
Such contradictions, that cats can be both domesticated and yet somewhat feral, is part of their appeal, says comedian Drennon Davis, whose four cats have found internet fame via his short-form videos.

— Todd Martens, Los Angeles Times, 9 Sep. 2026

Definition of appeal

Noun

Today, times are good for the city of 17,000 thanks to its big businesses, small-town charm and engaged citizens, Mayor Chris Pimentel told The Times.

— Roger Vincent, Los Angeles Times, 9 Sep. 2026
Whether the actor is improvising or sticking closely to the script by Miles Hubley and Tommy White, Wilson’s talent and experience maintain the charm of a character who practically talks nonstop but in other hands could simply be obnoxious.

— Todd Gilchrist, Variety, 9 Sep. 2026

Definition of charm

Noun

Learning to distinguish genuine friendship from fascination with his position is something Prince William has had to navigate his entire life.

— Janelle Ash , Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 9 Sep. 2026
For Johns, honey is one such ingredient—and his fascination with it is steeped in history.

— Lauren Valenti, InStyle, 9 Sep. 2026

Definition of fascination

Noun

The rankings were based on student outcomes, learning environment and attractiveness.

— Finch Walker, USA Today, 1 Sep. 2026
The list of 500 schools was compiled by the magazine and data research firm Statista, Schools were given a score based on their student outcomes, learning environment and their attractiveness to students.

— Sacbee.com, Sacbee.com, 27 Aug. 2026

Definition of attractiveness

Noun

The ribs pick up smoke during the first part of the cook, sweetness while they’re wrapped in butcher paper and heat and acidity only toward the end, when the sauce is brushed on twice to create a sticky glaze.

— Monti Carlo, AJC.com, 5 Sep. 2026
Shaking the gin and lemon juice with simple syrup and ice properly dilutes the cocktail and adds a delicate sweetness.

— Chris Morocco, Bon Appetit Magazine, 4 Sep. 2026

Definition of sweetness

Noun

Irina Shayk is bringing sartorial drama to the 2026 Venice Film Festival, from elevated daytime looks to red carpet glamour.

— Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 8 Sep. 2026
Unsurprisingly, the Elie Saab H&M collection plays up after-dark glamour, and just in time for holiday party season, too.

— Tina Isaac-Goizé, Vogue, 3 Sep. 2026

Definition of glamour

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duels

duende

duenna

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“Duende.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/duende. Accessed 14 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of duende

noun

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