German word

Zauber

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈtsaʊ̯bɐ/

Meaning

  • masculine nouncharm

Example

Der Zauber der Altstadt zieht viele Besucher an.

The charm of the old town attracts many visitors.

Illustration for Zauber (charm)

More examples

Die Zuschauer standen unter dem Zauber des Künstlers.

The spectators were under the artist's spell.

Core concept

A mysterious force seems to cast a glow of fascination over a scene.

Common phrases

  • unter dem Zauber stehen

    be under the spell

  • den Zauber erleben

    experience the magic

  • voller Zauber sein

    be full of magic

Similar words

Charme: A warm, appealing quality shown through appearance or manner.
Reiz: An attractive quality that strongly draws attention or interest.
Atmosphäre: The distinctive mood or feeling that fills a place.
Faszination: A powerful appeal that holds the mind's attention.

Definition in German

Ein Zauber ist eine geheimnisvolle Wirkung oder Atmosphäre, die Dinge oder Menschen besonders anziehend erscheinen lässt.

Word origin

The modern noun Zauber continues Middle High German zouber and Old High German zoupar; its sense of captivating effect grew alongside its magical sense.

Usage tips

  • Zauber has a broad modern use for atmosphere or appeal, whereas Zauberspruch specifically means a spoken magic spell.

Other meanings

  • magicnoun
  • enchantmentnoun

Opposites

  • Gewöhnlichkeitordinarinessnoun
  • Nüchternheitsobrietynoun

Related words

  • Zauberermagiciannoun
  • Verzauberungenchantmentnoun
  • zauberhaftmagicaladjective

Word lists with this word