Definition of bewitch

The word "bewitch" has its roots in Old English and Middle English. It comes from the verb "wiccian," which means "to charm or enchant" and is related to the word "witch." In Old English, the word "wicca" referred to a type of magic or sorcery, and the verb "wiccian" was used to describe the act of performing this magic. In Middle English, the word "bewitch" emerged as a combination of "be-" (meaning "to be") and "wicchen" (meaning "to charm"). The word initially had a more neutral connotation, simply meaning "to charm or enthrall." Over time, however, the term began to take on a more negative connotation, implying a sense of dark magic or evil enchantment. Today, the word "bewitch" is often used in a more figurative sense to describe someone or something that has captivated or enchanted us.