abracadabra
|ab/ra/ca/dab/ra|
B2
/ˌæbrəkəˈdæbrə/
magical incantation
Etymology
Etymology Information
'abracadabra' originates from Late Latin, specifically the word 'abracadabra', used as a magical formula.
Historical Evolution
'abracadabra' has remained largely unchanged from its original form in Late Latin to modern English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it was used as a magical formula to ward off illness or misfortune, and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a word used in magic tricks or as a magical incantation.
The magician waved his wand and said 'abracadabra', making the rabbit disappear.
Synonyms
hocus-pocusincantation
Last updated: 2025/02/01 14:09