Sorcery
noun /ˈsɔː.sər.i/ — The use of magic, especially dark or harmful magic
Definition
The practice of magic — especially magic that draws on supernatural or diabolical power, or is used for harmful purposes. The art of working beyond natural causes.
Beyond the definition
The word for power that operates outside the rules. Sorcery is magic that doesn't explain itself — and refuses to be tested.
Origin & history
From Old French 'sorcerie', from 'sorcier' (sorcerer) — from Medieval Latin 'sortiarius' (one who influences fate), from 'sors' (fate, lot). Sorcery is the manipulation of fate.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
The accusation of sorcery has been used throughout history to destroy anyone who behaved unexpectedly.
Some marketing is indistinguishable from sorcery: the product doesn't change, but the desire is summoned from nothing.
There is a kind of sorcery in great performance: you watch someone do something that cannot quite be explained.
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 “Sorcery” when the meaning fits your context: The practice of magic — especially magic that draws on supernatural or diabolical power, or is used for harmful purposes. The art of working beyond natural causes.
Synonyms
witchcraft, magic, wizardry, necromancy, conjuring
Antonyms
science, reason, explainability
Related words
Questions about this word
What does "Sorcery" mean?
Sorcery is noun meaning: The use of magic, especially dark or harmful magic. The practice of magic — especially magic that draws on supernatural or diabolical power, or is used for harmful purposes. The art of working beyond natural causes.
Where does the word "Sorcery" come from?
From Old French 'sorcerie', from 'sorcier' (sorcerer) — from Medieval Latin 'sortiarius' (one who influences fate), from 'sors' (fate, lot). Sorcery is the manipulation of fate.