Incantation
noun /ˌɪnkænˈteɪʃən/ — A series of words spoken as a magical spell or charm.
Definition
A formula of words used as a magical spell or ritual — spoken, chanted, or sung with the intention of producing a magical effect. By extension: any language that seems to create or change reality through its utterance.
Beyond the definition
Language began as incantation — an attempt to make the world obey by speaking to it correctly. We never entirely lost this. Legal oaths, marriage vows, the opening lines of great speeches: all retain the sense that the right words, spoken in the right order, can alter the world.
Origin & history
Medieval Latin 'incantatio' — from 'incantare' (to chant a spell over), from 'in-' (upon) + 'cantare' (to sing). To enchant is to place someone under a song. Incantation and enchantment share the same etymology.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
She read the contract clause three times — it had the quality of incantation.
Poetry at its best is incantation — the right words, in the right order, do something.
The children repeated the school rules in a singsong voice that made them sound like incantation.
How to use it
This entry uses a noun. Follow the examples for articles and singular or plural forms; not every noun takes “a” or “an.”
Choose “Incantation” when the meaning fits your context: A formula of words used as a magical spell or ritual — spoken, chanted, or sung with the intention of producing a magical effect. By extension: any language that seems to create or change reality through its utterance.
Synonyms
spell, charm, chant, invocation
Antonyms
plain speech
Related words
Questions about this word
What does "Incantation" mean?
Incantation is noun meaning: A series of words spoken as a magical spell or charm.. A formula of words used as a magical spell or ritual — spoken, chanted, or sung with the intention of producing a magical effect. By extension: any language that seems to create or change reality through its utterance.
Where does the word "Incantation" come from?
Medieval Latin 'incantatio' — from 'incantare' (to chant a spell over), from 'in-' (upon) + 'cantare' (to sing). To enchant is to place someone under a song. Incantation and enchantment share the same etymology.