charisma
Meaning
a powerful personal quality that makes other people feel attracted and impressed by you
a special power that some people have which makes them able to influence or inspire other people
Structure
Usage
the politician's charisma helped him connect with voters from all backgrounds.
she lacks the charisma needed for a leadership role in such a dynamic company.
his natural charisma made him the center of attention at every social gathering.
Etymology
the word charisma entered english in the mid-17th century via ecclesiastical latin from the greek 'kharisma', meaning "a gift of grace, a favor freely given." the greek root 'kharis' (grace, kindness) is itself derived from the pie root gher- (to like, want). originally used in a theological context to denote a divinely conferred power or talent, its meaning secularized in the 20th century. the modern sense of a compelling personal magnetism or charm evolved by metaphor, framing this quality as an innate, almost magical gift that inspires devotion in others.
Analysis
charis originates from greek (χάρις), meaning "grace, favor, kindness." in this word, it functions as the core root conveying the concept of a divine gift. the suffix -ma is a greek noun-forming suffix used to indicate the result of an action or a state of being.