charisma
noun
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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
Examples of charisma in a Sentence
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
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Dictionary Entries Near charisma
Cite this Entry
“Charisma.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/charisma. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.
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charisma
noun
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