Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Fascinate
Fas′ci-nate
,Verb.
T.
[
imp. & p. p.
Fascinated
, p. pr. & vb. n.
. Fascinating
.] [L.
fascinare
; cf. Gr. [GREEK][GREEK][GREEK][GREEK][GREEK][GREEK][GREEK][GREEK][GREEK][GREEK] to slander, bewitch.] 1.
To influence in an uncontrollable manner; to operate on by some powerful or irresistible charm; to bewitch; to enchant.
It has been almost universally believed that . . . serpents can stupefy and
fascinate
the prey which they are desirous to obtain. Griffith (Cuvier).
2.
To excite and allure irresistibly or powerfully; to charm; to captivate, as by physical or mental charms.
Syn. – To charm; enrapture; captivate; enchant; bewitch; attract.
Webster 1828 Edition
Fascinate
FAS'CINATE
,Verb.
T.
1.
To bewitch; to enchant; to operate on by some powerful or irresistible influence; to influence the passions or affections in an incontrollable manner.None of the affections have been noted to fascinate and bewitch, but love and envy.
2.
To charm; to captivate; to excite and allure irresistible or powerfully. The young are fascinated by love; female beauty fascinates the unguarded youth; gaming is a fascinating vice.