How Do You Spell SVENGALI?

Pronunciation: [svɛŋɡˈɑːli] (IPA)

Svengali is a word that refers to a person who has an overwhelming influence on others, often in a manipulative way. The spelling may seem odd, but it has a logical origin. "Sv" is pronounced like "sh" in the beginning of many Slavic names, while "en" is pronounced like "on" in French. The "g" is pronounced like a "soft g" as in "gem," while the final "i" is pronounced like "ee." So, the IPA phonetic transcription of Svengali is /svenˈɡɑːli/.

SVENGALI Meaning and Definition

1. Svengali is a noun that refers to a person who manipulates or controls another individual, often using their influence or power to exert control over them. Derived from the novel "Trilby" by George du Maurier, the term has become widely used to describe someone who exerts a dominating, cunning, or hypnotic influence on another, often for their own personal gain or agenda.

   The concept of a Svengali typically involves a charismatic, persuasive individual who possesses an uncanny ability to control and manipulate others, often by exploiting their weaknesses or vulnerabilities. This control can extend to various aspects of a person's life, such as their emotions, decisions, or actions. The Svengali figure may use psychological tactics, emotional manipulation, or even outright coercion to gain and maintain control over their target.

   This term often carries a negative connotation, implying a manipulative, often malevolent force preying on someone more vulnerable or easily influenced. It suggests a power dynamic that is inherently imbalanced, with the Svengali exerting control over the weaker-willed, submissive victim. The term can be used to describe a range of situations, including personal relationships, professional settings, or even larger socio-political contexts.

   Overall, "Svengali" refers to an exploitative, controlling figure who exercises an undue influence over others, typically for their own selfish purposes or to fulfill their own agenda.

Common Misspellings for SVENGALI

• sengal
• svengal
• Stembali
• Svangaliu

Etymology of SVENGALI

The word "Svengali" comes from the name of a fictional character named Svengali in George du Maurier's 1894 novel "Trilby". The character Svengali is depicted as a hypnotist who manipulates and controls Trilby, a young woman, using his hypnotic powers. In the novel, Svengali's name is derived from the German word for "wanderer" or "vagabond" - "Zwengali". It is believed that du Maurier combined this word with the Italian name "Gella", which means "servant" or "lackey", to create the character's distinctive name. Over time, the character's name "Svengali" has entered the English language as a noun describing someone who manipulates or controls another person, often to their own advantage.