The phrase "hold spellbound" is spelled /hoʊld spɛlbaʊnd/ in phonetic transcription. The "o" in "hold" is pronounced as the "oh" sound and the "d" is a voiced "d" sound. "Spellbound" is made up of two words, "spell" and "bound." "Spell" is pronounced with a short "e" sound, a double "l," and a voiced "l" sound. "Bound" is pronounced with a short "ou" sound and a voiced "d" sound. Together, the phrase means to keep someone fascinated or captivated.
The phrase "hold spellbound" refers to the captivating or entrancing effect that grips and captivates someone, rendering them in a state of deep fascination or enchantment. To be "hold spellbound" is to be completely engrossed, unable to divert one's attention or break free from the enthralling or mesmerizing power of something or someone.
When an individual is held spellbound, their senses and mental faculties are subdued, and they become entirely fixated on the object or situation that has captured their attention. It can often involve being under the influence of an intense charm, a captivating story, a thrilling performance, or an enchanting personality that evokes a sense of wonder and awe. The effect is so potent that it leaves the person spellbound, seemingly under a spell that renders them temporarily bewitched.
Being held spellbound can occur in various contexts, such as during a gripping theatrical performance that keeps the audience enthralled, while reading a compelling novel that absorbs the reader's imagination, or when witnessing a masterful magician who leaves spectators spellbound with their illusions. It is a state of complete captivation where the individual is detached from their surroundings, oblivious to distractions, and wholly absorbed by the enchanting influence of what holds them spellbound.
In summary, to be "held spellbound" is to be under the irresistible sway of something that captivates and enthralls, drawing the person into a state of deep fascination or enchantment, while suspending their ability to break free from the captivating influence.
The etymology of the phrase "hold spellbound" can be understood by examining the origins of its individual words.
1. Hold: The verb "hold" comes from the Old English word "haldan", which means "to grasp, keep possession of, or retain". Over time, the meaning expanded to include "to have control over" or "to keep in one's grasp". It originated from the Proto-Germanic word "haldaną".
2. Spellbound: The term "spellbound" is a compound word formed by combining "spell" and "bound".
- Spell: In this context, "spell" refers to a magical or enchanting influence exercised over someone. The word has its roots in Old English as "spell" or "spells", which meant "story or narrative, saying, or tale".