ENGLISH
REFERENCE

magic

n. uncountable
B1 Intermediate Oxford US //ˈmædʒɪk// UK //mˈædʒɪk// mag·ic Archaic General-service Informal Slang

n. special powers that people use to make impossible things happen. It can also describe the wonderful or exciting feeling of a special moment.

n. the power of apparently influencing events by using mysterious or supernatural forces. Often used figuratively to describe an enchanting quality or an exceptional skill that defies simple explanation.


SIMPLE

The children watched in awe as the performer performed magic.

CONTEXTUAL

There was a certain magic in the air as the sun began to set over the ancient ruins.

COMPLEX

While the plot follows standard fantasy tropes, the author infuses the prose with a lyrical magic that elevates the story into something truly profound.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English magik, magyk, from Old French magique (noun and adjective), from Latin magicus (adjective), magica (noun use of feminine form of magicus), from Ancient Greek μαγικός (magikós, “magical”), from μάγος (mágos, “magus”). Ultimately from Old Iranian, probably derived from Proto-Indo-European *meh₂gʰ- (“to be able to, to help; power, sorcerer”). Displaced native Old English ġealdor (survived in Middle English galder), and dwimmer.

Usage

Primarily uncountable when referring to supernatural power or a general atmosphere; can be used as a modifier before other nouns.

Idioms6 entries

© 2026 English Reference