The word “fascinating” comes from witchcraft

The etymology of the word “fascinating” comes from witchcraft.

Screenshot of etymology of the word witchcraft, from etymonline. Latin fascinatus, past participle of fascinare "bewitch, enchant, fascinate," from fascinus "a charm, enchantment, spell, witchcraft," which is of uncertain origin.

That explains why people say “fascinating” slowly, as though one is in a spell.

I looked up “fascinating” because my three-year-old asked me what that word meant. I thought that “fascinating” would be related somehow to facets. Like the facets of a diamond are fascinating. But instead, it’s witchcraft. I don’t think I’ll be explaining the etymology of fascinating to my daughter right now.

Also interesting… the word “fascinating” does not appear in the Bible.

The word "fascinating" is not in the Bible

Perhaps fitting, since the origin of the word is in witchcraft. However, I could see the word being used to describe some sort of tempting sin.

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