Hypnotist

/ˈhɪpnətɪst/ noun

Definition

A person who puts other people into a hypnotic state (deep relaxation where they're very suggestible) for therapy or entertainment.

Etymology

From 'hypnosis' (from Greek hypnos, sleep) plus '-ist' (person who does something). Hypnosis was named to sound scientific when studied in the 1800s, though 'sleep' isn't quite accurate.

Kelly Says

Stage hypnotists make it look theatrical, but clinical hypnosis is a real therapeutic tool—your brain is still active and you can't be made to do anything against your values. It's more like focused daydreaming than sleep.

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