charisma

noun

cha·​ris·​ma kə-ˈriz-mə 

1

: a personal magic of leadership arousing special popular loyalty or enthusiasm for a public figure (such as a political leader)

His success was largely due to his charisma.

2

: a special magnetic charm or appeal

the charisma of a popular actor

Did you know?

The Greek word charisma means "favor" or "gift." It comes from the verb charizesthai ("to favor"), which in turn comes from the noun charis, meaning "grace." In English, charisma was originally used in Christian contexts to refer to a gift or power bestowed upon an individual by the Holy Spirit for the good of the Church—a sense that is now very rare. These days, we use the word to refer to social, rather than divine, grace. For instance, a leader with charisma may easily gain popular support, and a job applicant with charisma may shine in an interview.

Synonyms

• allure
• animal magnetism
• appeal
• attractiveness
• captivation
• charm
• duende
• enchantment
• fascination
• force field
• glamour
• glamor
• magic
• magnetism
• oomph
• pizzazz
• pizazz
• seductiveness
• witchery

Examples of charisma in a Sentence

The candidate was lacking in charisma.

His success is largely due to his charisma.

Recent Examples on the Web

Because the press knew Ruth so well, the public did, too—and beyond his superlative play, the Sultan of Swat became beloved for his enormous charisma and appetites. —Nicholas Dawidoff, The New Yorker, 26 Oct. 2024

How, with his competitive edge and infectious charisma, Williams will orchestrate the game’s energy. —Dan Wiederer, Chicago Tribune, 26 Oct. 2024

Tom Holland’s charisma is the envy of those who know him — including Timothée Chalamet! —Jack Smart, People.com, 25 Oct. 2024

Her charisma, good looks and unwavering resilience in the ring won her a wide fan base and propelled her to become welterweight champion. —Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 30 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Greek, favor, gift, from charizesthai to favor, from charis grace; akin to Greek chairein to rejoice — more at yearn

First Known Use

1930, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Podcast

Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!

Kids Definition

charisma

noun

cha·​ris·​ma kə-ˈriz-mə 

: a special charm or public appeal