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incantation

noun

/ˌɪnkanˈteɪʃn/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of incantation

A formula of words spoken or written with the intention of bringing about a desired effect, often used in rituals and spells.
"The incantation was used in the ritual to invoke the spirits."

Detailed meaning of incantation

The word incantation comes from the Latin word "incantare" which means "to chant upon." Incantations have been used in many cultures throughout history, and can be found in the practices of magic, witchcraft, and religion.

In traditional cultures, incantations were often used for healing, protection, and divination. They were also used in rituals to summon spirits or to bring about good luck, love or wealth. Incantations can also be found in literature and popular culture, such as in fantasy novels and movies where they are used to cast spells and to control supernatural powers.

In a more general sense, incantation can also refer to any words or phrases that are spoken with the intention of bringing about a desired effect, such as a motivational phrase or a mantra. Incantation can also refer to the act of speaking or reciting a spell or a charm, or to the magic spell itself.

Example sentences containing incantation

1. The sorcerer recited the incantation to summon the spirit.
2. The witch muttered the incantation under her breath as she brewed her enemy.
3. The incantation was inscribed on the ancient tablet to protect the temple.
4. The incantation was passed down through generations in the form of a secret chant.
5. The sorcerer was muttering an incantation, casting a spell to control the elements.
6. The priest was reciting an incantation, invoking the spirits for guidance.

History and etymology of incantation

The noun 'incantation' draws its etymology from the Latin word 'incantare,' which is a combination of 'in,' meaning 'in' or 'upon,' and 'cantare,' meaning 'to sing' or 'to chant.' In ancient Roman and later medieval European traditions, 'incantare' was associated with the act of chanting or reciting words, often in a ritualistic or magical context, with the belief that these words possessed the power to bring about a desired effect. Over time, as the practice of magic and spellcasting evolved, the term 'incantation' came to represent a formula of words, spoken or written, with the intention of invoking or influencing supernatural forces or outcomes. This etymology highlights the historical connection between vocalization and the casting of spells or the performance of rituals in various cultural and mystical traditions.

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Further usage examples of incantation

1. The witch was whispering an incantation, brewing a potion for love.
2. The shaman was chanting an incantation, calling upon the ancestors for protection.
3. The wizard was uttering an incantation, summoning a familiar to do his bidding.
4. The mystic was singing an incantation, seeking enlightenment from the gods.
5. The cult leader was reciting an incantation, inspiring the followers with his rhetoric.
6. The medium was repeating an incantation, attempting to communicate with the dead.
7. The charlatan was mouthing an incantation, pretending to have magical powers.
8. The incantation was believed to be able to bring good luck and prosperity.
9. The novice was learning the incantation, studying the ancient tomes of magic.
10. The scholar was researching the incantation, tracing its origin and evolution.
11. The skeptic was skeptical of the incantation, dismissing it as superstition and mumbo jumbo.
12. The incantation was said to have the power to heal the sick.
13. The witch chanted a mysterious incantation over her bubbling cauldron.
14. The shaman's incantations were believed to heal the sick.
15. Ancient texts contained powerful incantations for summoning spirits.
16. The magician's spell required a precise incantation for success.
17. The priestess recited an incantation to bless the newlyweds.
18. In the story, the hero used an incantation to defeat the dragon.
19. The wizard muttered an incantation to unlock the enchanted door.
20. A whispered incantation brought the ancient relic to life.
21. The sorcerer's incantation summoned a mystical creature.
22. The mystical chant was a powerful incantation of protection.
23. She found an old book filled with cryptic incantations.
24. The enchantress used her incantation to control the elements.