# necromancy

/ˈnɛkɹəˌmænsi/ (US) · /nˈɛkɹəʊmənsi/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/necromancy
Updated: 2026-08-07

## Definition

a type of magic that involves talking to dead people or bringing them back to life. In stories and games, it is often seen as dark or evil magic.

For teachers: the practice of communicating with the dead to predict the future or influence events; also, the magical resurrection of the deceased. Often carries a sinister or taboo connotation in both historical and fictional contexts.

## Examples

- The wizard used necromancy to speak with the ghost.
- In many fantasy novels, the antagonist practices necromancy to raise an army of skeletons from the ancient graveyard.
- Historically viewed as a forbidden art, necromancy was believed to grant practitioners access to the hidden knowledge of the underworld through the summoning of spirits.

## Usage notes

- Typically uncountable when referring to the school of magic; occasionally used as a countable noun to describe specific rituals.

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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.