magic Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun any art that invokes supernatural powers
thaumaturgy.
noun an illusory feat; considered magical by naive observers
thaumaturgy; legerdemain; conjuring trick; trick; deception; conjuration; magic trick; illusion.
adjective satellite possessing or using or characteristic of or appropriate to supernatural powers
wizard; magical; witching; wizardly; charming; sorcerous.
- charming incantations
- magic signs that protect against adverse influence
- a magical spell
- 'tis now the very witching time of night"- Shakespeare
- wizard wands
- wizardly powers

OE. magique, L. magice, Gr. (sc. ), fr. . See Magic, a., and Magi.

A comprehensive name for all of the pretended arts which claim to produce effects by the assistance of supernatural beings, or departed spirits, or by a mastery of secret forces in nature attained by a study of occult science, including enchantment, conjuration, witchcraft, sorcery, necromancy, incantation, etc.
An appearance made by some magic. Chaucer.
Syn. -- Sorcery; witchcraft; necromancy; conjuration; enchantment.

L. magicus, Gr. , fr. : cf. F. magique. See Magi.

Pertaining to the hidden wisdom supposed to be possessed by the Magi; relating to the occult powers of nature, and the producing of effects by their agency.
Performed by, or proceeding from, occult and superhuman agencies; done by, or seemingly done by, enchantment or sorcery. Hence: Seemingly requiring more than human power; imposing or startling in performance; producing effects which seem supernatural or very extraordinary; having extraordinary properties; as, a magic lantern; a magic square or circle.
The painter's magic skill. Cowper.
✍ Although with certain words magic is used more than magical, -- as, magic circle, magic square, magic wand, -- we may in general say magic or magical; as, a magic or magical effect; a magic or magical influence, etc. But when the adjective is predicative, magical, and not magic, is used; as, the effect was magical.