HOCUSPOCUS Meaning and
Definition
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Hocuspocus is a noun that refers to a magical or deceptive trick or illusion, often performed with an intention to fool or deceive people. It is commonly associated with the practice of magic or conjuring tricks, wherein the performer uses clever techniques or sleight of hand to create an illusion of supernatural or miraculous powers. The term is believed to have originated from a 17th-century stage magician's jargon, with the intention to mimic or parody the language used during religious ceremonies.
In a broader sense, hocuspocus can also be used metaphorically to describe any kind of deceptive or misleading behavior, speech, or action employed to confuse, manipulate, or trick others into believing something that is not true. It implies a certain level of shallowness or superficiality, emphasizing the lack of substance or rationality behind the deception.
Furthermore, hocuspocus can be used to describe any complex or incomprehensible procedure or mechanism that appears as though it is working by some magical or mysterious means. This suggests a lack of transparency, suggesting that the true nature of the process is intentionally obscured or hidden.
Overall, hocuspocus encompasses the various aspects of trickery, illusion, deception, and inexplicable complexity, commonly associated with magic, deception, and misleading behavior.
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• To put a trick upon one.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for HOCUSPOCUS
- gocuspocus
- bocuspocus
- nocuspocus
- jocuspocus
- uocuspocus
- yocuspocus
- hicuspocus
- hkcuspocus
- hlcuspocus
- hpcuspocus
- h0cuspocus
- h9cuspocus
- hoxuspocus
- hovuspocus
- hofuspocus
- hoduspocus
- hocyspocus
- hochspocus
- hocjspocus
Etymology of HOCUSPOCUS
The exact etymology of the word "hocuspocus" is uncertain. It is believed to have originated in the late 17th century, but its precise origins are unclear. There are several theories about the word's etymology.
One theory links "hocuspocus" to a Latin phrase used in the practice of Roman Catholic priests during the Eucharist. The Latin phrase, "Hoc est corpus meum" (meaning "This is my body"), was believed to be spoken during the consecration of the bread and wine into the body and blood of Christ. This theory suggests that "hocuspocus" may have been a mocking or parodying distortion of the Latin phrase.
Another theory suggests that "hocuspocus" may have been influenced by the name of a 17th-century Italian magician named Gian de Pocus.
Similar spelling word for HOCUSPOCUS
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