hypnotism

[hip-nuh-tiz-uhm]

noun

1. the science dealing with the induction of hypnosis.

2. the act of hypnotizing.

3. hypnosis.

hypnotism

/ ˈhɪpnəˌtɪzəm /

noun

1. the scientific study and practice of hypnosis

2. the process of inducing hypnosis

Other Word Forms

• hypnotist noun
• hypnotistic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of hypnotism¹

Shortening of neuro-hypnotism, term introduced by British surgeon James Braid (1795–1860) in 1842; hypnotic, -ism

Example Sentences

This hypnotism is especially conveyed through the film’s costumes.

From Los Angeles Times

She tried quitting on several occasions using various methods from nicotine patches to hypnotism, before she managed to stop smoking for a nine-month period in 1979 and 1980, the court said.

From Seattle Times

What he was not interested in was hypnotism and prehistoric animals, as some pop-culture articles indicated.

From Literature

In the popular consciousness, hypnotism is the stuff of vampires, side shows and watch-waving therapists.

From New York Times

The plot also includes a disturbing case of mass hypnotism and mind control.

From Washington Post