in·can·ta·tion ( n k n-t  sh n)
n.
1. Ritual recitation of verbal charms or spells to produce a magic effect.
2.
a. A formula used in ritual recitation; a verbal charm or spell.
b. A conventionalized utterance repeated without thought or aptness; a formula: the pious incantations of the administration.
[Middle English incantacioun, from Old French incantation, from Late Latin incant
ti , incanttin-, spell, from Latin incanttus, past participle of incantre, to enchant; see enchant.]
in
can·tation·al adj.
in·can
ta·tory (-t-tôr , -tr) adj. |
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition copyright ©2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
Dad encouraged us to repeat the incantation, "Oh wa, tai goo, si am" quickly.
No comments:
Post a Comment