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magic

/ˈmad͡ʒɪk/ noun

In Latin: magia, magice, veneficium Wiktionary

noun Definition from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA). Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about magic at Wordnik → Where our words come from →

  1. The application of rituals or actions, especially those based on occult knowledge, to subdue or manipulate natural or supernatural beings and forces in order to have some benefit from them. .mw-parser-output .defdate{font-size:smaller}
    “My magic will help you find true love,” said the witch as she looked for the right herbs in her collection.
  2. The supernatural forces which are drawn on in such a ritual.
  3. A specific ritual or procedure associated with such magic; a spell; a magical ability.

adjective

  1. Having supernatural talents, properties or qualities attributed to magic.
    a magic wand
  2. Producing extraordinary results, as though through the use of magic.
    a magic moment
  3. Pertaining to conjuring tricks or illusions performed for entertainment etc.
    a magic show

verb

  1. To produce, transform (something), (as if) by magic.

Origin

From Middle English magik, magyk, from Old French magique (noun and adjective), from Latin magicus (adjective), magica (noun use of feminine form of magicus), from Ancient Greek μαγικός (magikós, “magical”), from μάγος (mágos, “magus”). Ultimately from Old Iranian, probably derived from Proto-Indo-European *meh₂gʰ- (“to be able to, to help; power, sorcerer”). Displaced Old English ġealdor (whence Middle English galder) and dwimmer.

From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)