What does hypnotizer mean?
A hypnotizer is someone who induces hypnosis, a state of concentrated attention in which people may become especially responsive to suggestions. The word is especially associated with stage performers who entertain or demonstrate hypnosis before an audience, although it can refer more generally to a person who hypnotizes others. In ordinary conversation, calling someone a hypnotizer can also suggest that the person has an unusually strong ability to hold attention or influence other people's actions. The related word 'hypnotist' is often used for a trained practitioner, while 'hypnotizer' carries a somewhat more performative and popular-entertainment flavour. The word derives from 'hypnosis', which ultimately comes from Greek 'hypnos', meaning 'sleep'.
nounA hypnotizer is a person who hypnotizes others, especially as a stage entertainer or practitioner who induces a state of focused attention and suggestibility.
- A person who induces hypnosis in others.
- A stage entertainer who uses hypnosis as part of a performance.
"The stage hypnotizer asked the volunteers to relax before selecting them for the performance."
"A professional hypnotizer guided the volunteers into a deeply relaxed state."
"The audience watched in amazement as the hypnotizer convinced one participant to believe she was a famous singer."
The standard plural is 'hypnotizers'; it is used when referring to more than one person who induces or performs hypnosis.
"The two hypnotizers began with a short relaxation exercise for the audience."
A hypnotizer may put an audience to sleep—metaphorically, of course—while keeping them wide awake with curiosity.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hypnotizer come from?
The word 'hypnotizer' was formed in the 19th century from the older term 'hypnosis' and the agent-forming suffix '-izer'. 'Hypnosis' derives from Greek 'hypnos', meaning 'sleep', through the earlier English scientific term 'hypnotism'. The same Greek root also underlies related words such as 'hypnotic', 'hypnotize' and 'hypnotherapy'.
How hypnotizer is actually used
The term is most often used for an entertainer who puts people into a hypnotic state. In professional contexts, 'hypnotist' or 'hypnotherapist' may be more precise, depending on the person's role.
Easily confused with hypnotizer
A hypnotist is a person trained to practise or induce hypnosis, while a hypnotizer more commonly suggests someone who performs hypnosis, often as an entertainer.