fascinate — to attract and hold attentively by a unique power, personal charm, unusual nature, or some other special quality
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to attract and hold attentively by a unique power, personal charm, unusual nature, or some other special quality
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈfæsəˌneɪt/
Example Sentences
- My cat is fascinated by laser pointers but ignores expensive toys.
- Students were fascinated by the teacher's interactive science experiments.
- He's fascinated by conspiracy theories but can't remember where he put his keys.
fascinate
VERB[/ˈfæsəˌneɪt/]
to attract and hold attentively by a unique power, personal charm, unusual nature, or some other special quality
The painting fascinated the visitor, who couldn't stop staring at it.
The glowing jellyfish fascinated the divers. (FASTEN + EYES = FASCINATE → something that fastens your eyes and attention)
The mysterious fossil fascinated the students, who investigated it and learned to appreciate it.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Fascinate derives from Latin fascinate, originally meaning 'to cast a spell' or 'bewitch.' The Romans conceptualized the compelling, almost magical power of attraction as literal enchantment, reflecting their belief in the mystical nature of irresistible charm.
Breakdown
fascinus (magical charm, spell) + -ate (verb suffix forming transitive verbs). The root fascinus relates to fascination as a bewitching or enchanting force.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My cat is fascinated by laser pointers but ignores expensive toys.”
“Students were fascinated by the teacher's interactive science experiments.”
“He's fascinated by conspiracy theories but can't remember where he put his keys.”
“The documentary about ocean life fascinated viewers worldwide.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.