fascinate
UK[ˈfæsɪneɪt]US[ˈfæsɪneɪt]
v
to attract and hold the interest and attention of someone completely
v
(archaic) to deprive of the power of escape or resistance, as through the use of a spell
Morpheme Breakdown
fascin
ate
fascin
to enchant
ate
verb suffix
Etymology
the word 'fascinate' has its origins in the latin verb fascinare, meaning 'to bewitch or enchant'. this latin term is derived from fascinum, which referred to a magical charm or spell, and also to a phallic amulet used in ancient rome to ward off evil. the underlying concept is one of overpowering attraction or control, as if by magic. over time, the word evolved in english to lose its literal association with witchcraft, retaining the core idea of an irresistible, captivating power that holds one's attention completely.
Analysis
Structure: fascin (to enchant) + ate (verb suffix)
fascin originates from latin fascinare, meaning 'to bewitch or enchant'. the suffix -ate is a verb-forming suffix from latin -atus, indicating an action or process.
Examples
the intricate details of the clockwork mechanism never fail to fascinate him.
she was fascinated by the stories of ancient explorers and their voyages.
the way light played on the water's surface fascinated the young artist.