'spellbound' originates from the Old English word 'spellian,' meaning 'to tell' or 'to speak,' combined with 'bound,' meaning 'tied' or 'fastened.'

'spellian' transformed into the Middle English word 'spell,' and eventually became the modern English word 'spellbound.'

Initially, it meant 'tied by a spell,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'captivated or fascinated.'