beguiling
|be-guil-ing|
C1
/bɪˈɡaɪlɪŋ/
(beguile)
charm deceptively
Etymology
Etymology Information
'beguile' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'bigilen,' where 'be-' meant 'thoroughly' and 'gilen' meant 'to deceive.'
Historical Evolution
'bigilen' transformed into the modern English word 'beguile' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to deceive thoroughly,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'charm or enchant, often deceptively.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
charming or enchanting, often in a deceptive way.
Her beguiling smile made everyone trust her instantly.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/03/05 23:51