charisma

noun

cha·ris·ma kə-ˈriz-mə

: 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.

: 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.

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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

According to the model, an analysis of their acceptance speeches at the party conventions indicates that Harris possesses less charisma than Trump. —

Marco Rubio, Newsweek, 1 Nov. 2024 Just as the man has begun to find community and joy with a mysterious organization called Sunshine Club — led by a vaguely cult-like figure played with considerable charisma by leading Chinese auteur Jia Zhangke — his mother falls gravely ill. —

Patrick Brzeski, The Hollywood Reporter, 1 Nov. 2024 Most people tend to define charisma as how a person speaks or positions their body, Dr. Jensen says. —

Julia Sullivan, SELF, 31 Oct. 2024 Arthur Fils, one year younger than his compatriot, is probably a better contender at this juncture with a dash more charisma in the mould of a Jo-Wilfried Tsonga. —

Tim Ellis, Forbes, 30 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for charisma