Fas"ci*nate (?), v. t. [imp. &
p. p. Fascinated (?), p. pr. & vb.
n.. Fascinating (&?;).] [L. fascinare; cf.
Gr. &?;&?;&?;&?;&?;&?;&?;&?;&?;&?; to slander, bewitch.]
1. To influence in an uncontrollable manner; to
operate on by some powerful or irresistible charm; to bewitch; to
enchant.
It has been almost universally believed that . . .
serpents can stupefy and fascinate the prey which they are
desirous to obtain.
Griffith (Cuvier).
2. To excite and allure irresistibly or
powerfully; to charm; to captivate, as by physical or mental
charms.
There be none of the passions that have been noted to
fascinate or bewitch but love and envy.
Bacon.
Syn. -- To charm; enrapture; captivate; enchant; bewitch;
attract.
