1. Originally, to put under a spell or to bewitch.
In later use it was disconnected from the notion of witchcraft; that is, to deprive of the power of escape or resistance, as serpents are said to do through the terror produced by their look or merely by their perceived presence.
2. To attract or hold motionless, as by a fixed look or by inspiring terror.
To attract and retain the attention of (a person) by an irresistible influence.
3. Now usually, to attract and to hold spellbound by delightful qualities; to charm, to enchant.
To hold the attention of by being very interesting or delightful; to attract and retain the attention of (a person) by an irresistible influence.
Strong attraction; charm; allure.
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