psychokinesis
UK[ˌsaɪ.kəʊ.kɪˈniː.sɪs]US[ˌsaɪ.koʊ.kɪˈniː.sɪs]
n
The supposed ability to move physical objects with the mind alone.
Morpheme Breakdown
psycho
kinesis
psycho
mind
kinesis
movement
Etymology
The word is a modern scientific coinage, constructed entirely from Greek elements to describe a parapsychological concept. The first element, "psycho-", originates from the ancient Greek 'psyche', which referred to the breath, life, soul, or mind, reflecting the animating principle. The second element, "-kinesis", derives from the Greek 'kinesis', meaning motion or movement, a noun formed from the verb 'kinein' (to move). Thus, the term's literal construction, "mind-movement", directly and logically conveys its modern abstract meaning: the movement of objects by mental power, bypassing physical interaction.
Analysis
Structure: psycho (mind) + kinesis (movement)
- psycho: From Greek 'psyche', meaning "mind, soul, spirit". Functions as a combining form denoting a relationship to the mind.
- kinesis: From Greek 'kinesis', meaning "movement, motion". Functions as a combining form denoting movement or activity.
Examples
The film's protagonist used psychokinesis to deflect bullets in mid-air.
Scientific studies have failed to provide conclusive evidence for the existence of psychokinesis.
Reports of psychokinesis often involve objects like spoons or dice allegedly being influenced by concentrated thought.