# abracadabra

/ˌæbɹəkəˈdæbɹə/ (US) · /ˌæbɹəkədˈæbɹɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/abracadabra
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a word used in magic to show that a trick is happening. It is also a name for a special type of medicine.

For teachers: a magical incantation used to signal the performance of a trick; also the name of a historical medicinal powder containing mercury. Often used as a placeholder for a secret or mysterious phrase.

## Examples

- The magician said 'abracadabra' and the rabbit appeared.
- The children were fascinated when the magician shouted 'abracadabra' and made the coins disappear.
- While modern audiences associate 'abracadabra' with stage magic, it originally served as a protective charm in ancient alchemical texts to ward off the effects of poison.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.