English Reference

Word

charismatic

Phoneticscharis·mat·ic

US/kɛɹɪzˈmætɪk/

UK/kˌæɹɪsmˈætɪk/

Definitions

01charming and magnetic

B2 · Upper Intermediate

adj. having a natural ability to attract and influence other people through your personality.

adj. possessing a compelling charm or magnetism that inspires devotion or fascination in others.

“The charismatic leader spoke for an hour, and the crowd listened to every word.”

“Despite his lack of formal experience, his charismatic presence during the interview convinced the board that he could lead the department through the merger.”

Antonyms

uninspiringdull

02religious movement

C1 · Advanced Religion Technical

adj. related to a type of Christianity that focuses on the power of the Holy Spirit.

adj. relating to or denoting a form of Christianity that emphasises the role of the Holy Spirit and the manifestation of spiritual gifts.

“They attend a charismatic church where the services are very lively and emotional.”

“The charismatic movement has seen significant growth in South America, influencing traditional liturgical practices across various denominations.”

Usage

Often capitalized in religious contexts.

Synonyms

pentecostal

03a religious follower

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Religion Technical · Formal

n. a person who belongs to a charismatic Christian group.

n. an adherent of the Charismatic Movement within Christianity.

“As a charismatic, she believes that spiritual healing is a vital part of her faith.”

“The conference brought together charismatics from various backgrounds to discuss the evolution of modern worship music.”

Usage

Usually refers to a member of a specific religious movement.

Teaching tip

This noun form is much less common than the adjective and is almost exclusively used within religious studies or communities.

Synonyms

Real-World Examples

“Hikers often spot these charismatic creatures perched on boulders or scurrying through wildflowers.”
Phys.org 21 Aug 2026
“Baobabs are charismatic trees that grow in Australia, continental Africa and Madagascar.”
Phys.org 14 Aug 2026

Etymology

From Ancient Greek χάρισμα (khárisma, “grace, favour, gift”) + -ic.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Word family

ADJECTIVE

charismatic(B2)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference