Conjure

Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/ˈkɒn.dʒər/

Definitions

1. To invoke (a spirit or ghost) by a magical or supernatural act.
2. To summon or bring about something as if by magic.
3. To create or imagine something, especially in a vivid or skillful manner.

Usage Examples

• The magician managed to conjure a rabbit from his hat.
• She could conjure up the most beautiful images with her words.
• The ritual was meant to conjure the spirits of the ancestors.

Etymology

The word "conjure" comes from the Latin "conjurare," meaning to swear together or to swear an oath. The modern sense of calling forth spirits or performing magic emerged during the 14th century and is closely tied to the practices of alchemy and early witchcraft.

Synonyms

• Summon
• Invoke
• Conjuration
• Call forth
• Produce

Antonyms

• Repel
• Dismiss
• Expel
• Ban

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In British English, "conjure" is pronounced with a soft "j" sound, whereas American English often emphasizes the "j" sound, making it more pronounced. Regional accents within both British and American English can also influence the way the "r" sound is articulated.

Historical Usage

In the early use of "conjure," the word was closely associated with magical rituals and the invocation of spirits. By the 16th century, it had expanded to include the use of magic in illusions and stage performances, especially as magicians began to use it to describe tricks involving the summoning of objects or transformations.

Cultural Nuances

Throughout history, different cultures have had varying beliefs about conjuring. In Western traditions, conjuring is often linked to witchcraft, sorcery, and occult practices, while in Eastern cultures, conjuration may be tied to spiritual or ancestral communication. In modern popular culture, "conjure" is mostly used to describe magic tricks or illusions, and it is often used in a theatrical context.

More Information

The term "conjure" continues to be used in both spiritual and theatrical contexts. In religious and occult traditions, conjuring refers to the summoning of spirits or deities for specific purposes, such as healing or divination. In the entertainment industry, "conjuring" refers to the art of performing magic tricks, often using sleight of hand or other illusionary techniques. Conjuring has also evolved in popular media, from stories of wizards to modern-day magicians who "conjure" feats of illusion before an audience.