English Reference
noun

sorcery

n.
US /ˈsɔɹsɝi/ UK /sˈɔːsəɹi/ sor·cery UK spelling sorceries

  1. 01 C2 Proficiency Literary

    the use of magic or special powers to influence people or events.

    the use of supernatural power, typically involving spells or rituals to influence the natural world.

    Simple

    In the old stories, the wizard used sorcery to protect the hidden kingdom.

    In context

    The epic poem describes a world where sorcery is a forbidden art, practiced only by those willing to risk their souls for power.

    Usage

    Often used in fantasy literature or historical contexts rather than modern daily life.

  2. 02 C2 Proficiency LiteraryFormal

    a type of magic that is considered evil or dangerous.

    specifically refers to black magic or the occult, often implying a malevolent intent.

    Simple

    The villagers feared the old ruins, believing they were still haunted by ancient sorcery.

    In context

    The inquisitor claimed that the drought was not a natural disaster but the result of dark sorcery performed by the cult.

    Usage

    Frequently carries a negative or sinister connotation compared to the neutral term 'magic'.

    black magicnecromancy

From Middle English sorcery, borrowed from Middle French sorcerie, ultimately derived from Latin sors (“fate”), from Proto-Indo-European *ser- (“to bind”). Cognate with serō, seriēs, sermō. Compare also French sorcier.

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

This entry
Origin ine-pro *ser-
Level C2 · Proficiency
Frequency Occasional
Updated