Definition

To captivate or enchant someone completely, making them unable to look away or think of anything else.

Example

The magician's performance was so mesmerizing that it spellbound the entire audience.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see that magician at the show last night?

Yeah, he was amazing! He really knows how to spellbind an audience.

I couldn't believe my eyes when he made that elephant disappear!

Right? It was like he had us all under a spell.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Spellbind → It is formed from "spell" (from Old English *spell*, meaning a story or tale) and "bind" (from Old English *bindan*, meaning to tie or fasten). The word "spellbind" means to captivate or hold someone in a magical or enchanting way, as if tying them with a spell.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'story' ('spell') that 'ties' you up ('bind') in fascination — that's how spellbind means to captivate someone.

Visually Confused Words