Definition of spellbindnext
as in to fascinate
to hold the attention of as if by a spell the tale about pirates and their buried treasure had completely spellbound the children

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 spellbind There are no memorable choruses, hooky instrumentals passages, or spellbinding solos, all which have been a part of the band’s sonic identity, including on Life Is But a Dream… to an extent. — Quentin Thane Singer, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026 As many as 13,000 of the wily reptiles live in the swamp, adding a layer of spellbinding magic to the wetland. — Charles Seabrook, AJC.com, 25 July 2026 Thereby hangs Colloff’s spellbinding tale of a justice system derailed by biases. — Hamilton Cain, Time, 7 July 2026 The two Harpa shows were especially spellbinding, especially an ensemble performance of music from her recent album Where to From, bathed in otherworldly illumination by lighting designer Theresa Baumgartner. — Andy Battaglia, ARTnews.com, 18 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for spellbind
Recent Examples of Synonyms for spellbind
Verb
  • The trailer promises fascinating new characters, like one man who lives on a sailboat for most of the year.
    — Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 30 Sep. 2026
  • The world was fascinated by mummies, but that did not lend itself to reverence.
    — Michele Metych Britannica Editors Sep. 29, Encyclopedia Britannica, 29 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • My daughter was enchanted by the Balinese rice-on-the-forehead ritual for good fortune that is a part of the arrival, and the front desk staff happily indulged her request to do it again—multiple times a day.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Oct. 2026
  • Perhaps too enchanted, as Pitt lost his date on the dance floor that night.
    — Daysia Tolentino, Entertainment Weekly, 17 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Spellbind.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spellbind. Accessed 5 Oct. 2026.

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