English vocabulary · B2
Mesmerize
/ˈmɛzməˌraɪz/ · v.
It means to hold your attention so you cannot look away, like a spell.
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Example sentences
- The dancer's moves mesmerized the whole crowd.
- Bright lights mesmerized the sleepy kitten.
Word origin and roots
- mesmer — named after a doctor (from German)
- ize — to make (from Greek)
Synonyms and nuances
- CAPTIVATE — hold complete attention (To Charm Completely)
- ENCHANT — charm as if by magic (With Magic Or Charm)
- HYPNOTIZE — put into a trance (Into A Trance State)
Similar words
- captivate
- enchant
- hypnotize
Lesson notes
Mesmerize. It means to hold your attention so you cannot look away, like a spell.
Related: captivate, enchant, hypnotize. Use mesmerize when a sight holds you still.
The dancer's moves mesmerized the whole crowd. Bright lights mesmerized the sleepy kitten.
Mesmer- means a doctor's name. Ize- means to make. Frozen in place under a spell — that is mesmerize.