Pronunciation: [sˈɔːsəɹi] (IPA) 
Sorcery (/ˈsɔːsəri/) is a noun that refers to the practice of magic or witchcraft. The spelling of sorcery follows the common English pattern of using the letter "c" after the letter "s" when the following vowel is "o," "a," "u," or "e." The "er" in sorcery is pronounced with a long "e" sound because "e" is the final letter in the word. Overall, sorcery is spelled and pronounced consistently with the conventions of English language.
Sorcery refers to the practice of utilizing supernatural or magical powers, often associated with the manipulation of unseen forces or spirits, in order to influence or control outcomes in the physical or spiritual realms. It encompasses a wide range of mystical practices, rituals, spells, or incantations that are believed to harness and direct these supernatural forces to achieve specific purposes or outcomes.
Within various cultural and historical contexts, sorcery has been attributed to individuals who possess a special connection or knowledge of the spiritual or magical realms. These individuals, commonly known as sorcerers or sorceresses, are believed to possess innate or acquired abilities to communicate with spirits, deities, or otherworldly entities and manipulate the natural world in ways that surpass ordinary human abilities.
Often regarded as distinct from witchcraft or wizardry, sorcery is typically associated with practices focused on the direct manipulation and control of supernatural or arcane forces, while witchcraft carries connotations of worship or collaboration with natural or earth-based powers. Sorcery is frequently associated with rituals or ceremonies involving the use of specific objects, symbols, or ingredients like herbs, crystals, potions, or talismans.
While perceptions and beliefs about sorcery may vary across different cultures and religious systems, it generally involves the use of magical or mystical techniques to bring about desired outcomes, such as healing, divination, protection, love, or even harm. Due to its perceived connection with unseen and potentially dangerous forces, sorcery has historically been surrounded by both fear and fascination, often leading to intricate mythologies, legends, and cultural beliefs surrounding its practice.
Divination by the aid of evil spirits; magic; enchantment.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "sorcery" originated from Middle English "sorcerie", which was derived from Old French "sorcerie" or "sourcerie". This Old French term came from Medieval Latin "sortiarius", which meant "sorcerer" or "one who casts lots" and was derived from Latin "sors", meaning "lot" or "fate". In ancient times, sorcerers were believed to possess magical abilities tied to their ability to manipulate or influence fate or destiny through casting lots or divination. The word "sorcery" generally refers to the practice of using supernatural or magical powers to control or influence people or events.
