sorcery

noun sor·cery \-rē\

: the use of magical powers that are obtained through evil spirits

Full Definition of SORCERY

: the use of power gained from the assistance or control of evil spirits especially for divining : necromancy

: magic 2a

See sorcery defined for English-language learners

See sorcery defined for kids

Origin of SORCERY

Middle English sorcerie, from Anglo-French, from sorcer sorcerer, from Medieval Latin sortiarius, from Latin sort-, sors chance, lot — more at series

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to SORCERY

Synonyms: bewitchery, bewitchment, conjuring, devilry (or deviltry), diablerie, enchantment, ensorcellment, mojo, necromancy, magic, thaumaturgy, voodooism, witchcraft, witchery, wizardry

Other Occult Terms

augury, censor, invocation, lucidity, metempsychosis, mojo, numinous, preternatural, weird, wraith

SORCERY Defined for Kids

sorcery

noun sor·cery \ˈsȯr-sə-rē\

plural sor·cer·ies

Definition of SORCERY for Kids

: the use of magic : witchcraft

Learn More About SORCERY

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for "sorcery"

Spanish Central: Spanish translation of "sorcery"

Nglish: Translation of "sorcery" for Spanish speakers

Britannica English: Translation of "sorcery" for Arabic speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about "sorcery"

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: SordariaPrevious Word in the Dictionary: sorcerousAll Words Near: sorcery

Seen & Heard

What made you want to look up sorcery? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

View Seen & Heard Highlights from Around the Site