An attractive quality that pleases or fascinates others, or a small ornament worn on jewelry. It can also refer to a magical spell or incantation believed to have special powers.
From Old French 'charme' and Latin 'carmen' meaning 'song' or 'incantation.' Originally referred to magical spells that were sung or chanted, then broadened to mean any attractive or appealing quality that seems to cast a spell on others.
Charm literally comes from the word for song because ancient people believed that certain melodies and chanted words could cast magical spells. When we say someone is 'charming,' we're essentially saying they have a magical effect on us!
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