fascination
NounWordNet 3.0
Noun (3)
- the state of being intensely interested (as by awe or terror)Synonyms: captivation
- a feeling of great liking for something wonderful and unusualSynonyms: captivationenchantmententhrallment
- the capacity to attract intense interest“he held the children spellbound with magic tricks and other fascinations”
Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)
Fascination \Fas`ci*na"tion\, n. [L. fascinatio; cf. F. fascination.]
1.The act of fascinating, bewitching, or enchanting; enchantment; witchcraft; the exercise of a powerful or irresistible influence on the affections or passions; unseen, inexplicable influence. [1913 Webster]
The Turks hang old rags . . . upon their fairest horses, and other goodly creatures, to secure them against fascination.— Waller.[1913 Webster]
2.The state or condition of being fascinated. [1913 Webster]
3.That which fascinates; a charm; a spell. [1913 Webster]
There is a certain bewitchery or fascination in words.— South.[1913 Webster]