Category:Fascinate

Fas"ci*nate, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Fascinated, p. pr. & vb. n.. Fascinating (.] Etym: [L. fascinare; cf. Gr.

1. To influence in an uncontrollable manner; to operate on by some powerful or irresistible charm; to bewitch; to enchant. It has been almost universally believed that. . . serpents can stupefy and fascinate the prey which they are desirous to obtain. Griffith (Cuvier).

2. To excite and allure irresistibly or powerfully; to charm; to captivate, as by physical or mental charms. there be none of the passions that have been noted to fascinate or bewhich but love and envy. Bacon.

Syn. -- To charm; enrapture; captivate; enchant; bewitch; attract.