What does spellbound mean?
To be spellbound is to be completely captivated, with one's attention held so firmly that ordinary awareness of time or surroundings fades. The expression commonly describes audiences absorbed by a compelling story, performance, spectacle, or remarkable sight, but it can also apply to an individual entranced by a scene or subject. It conveys a stronger and more vivid fascination than simply being interested: the audience is transfixed, hushed, or unwilling to look away. Although its literal associations involve magic and enchantment, its modern use is usually figurative. For example, listeners might remain spellbound during a gripping performance, while readers of an ingenious mystery may be spellbound by the author's twists. The word is especially effective in literary and dramatic contexts, where it emphasizes the near-total hold that an exceptional experience can exert on its audience.
adjectiveSo fascinated or captivated by something that one is transfixed and unwilling to look away.
- So captivated by something that one's attention is completely held.
- Transfixed by wonder, surprise, or intense interest.
"The audience sat spellbound as the storyteller revealed the final twist."
"The children were spellbound by the magician's final illusion."
"She remained spellbound, unable to take her eyes from the moonlit sea."
Spellbound is literally the condition of being bound by a spell, but today it describes the spell a captivating story or performance can cast over its audience.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does spellbound come from?
The word dates from the 17th century and is formed from the verb 'spell' and the participial adjective 'bound.' In this combination, 'bound' means restrained or held fast, so the original expression conveyed the idea of being restrained or enchanted by a spell. The modern figurative sense developed from that older magical and supernatural association.
How spellbound is actually used
The word is especially associated with an audience absorbed by a story, performance, spectacle, or remarkable sight. It is often more literary or dramatic than the plainer words 'fascinated' or 'captivated.'