spellbinding

comparative more spellbinding · superlative most spellbinding

1. Engrossing; fascinating; gaining rapt attention; captivating.

   There is no doubt that recent developments in generative AI and large language models that produce text, information and images—and Shakespearean sonnets—in response to simple user prompts are impressive and even spellbinding.

   2024 May 28, Daron Acemoglu, “The Simple Macroeconomics of AI”, in NBER WORKING PAPER SERIES, number 32487, archived from the original on 13 Jun 2024, page 1

   1 more example

   Cuphead built a reputation for difficulty before release, but its boss battles are mostly about recognizing patterns than getting lucky against unfair bosses. Watching players ace their way through the game’s bosses is a spellbinding reminder that even tough games can be defeated easily with hard work.

   2017 October 2, Heather Alexandra, “Cuphead Player Beats Bosses Without Taking A Single Hit”, in Kotaku, archived from the original on 18 Feb 2018

2. Having the power to bind magically through the agency of a spell.

   Salt is a very favoured ingredient of spell-binding concoctions.

   1936, Rollo Ahmed, The Black Art, London: Long, page 178

plural spellbindings

1. A spell or enchantment that restrains or constricts someone's actions or freedom of will.

   The Roman epic poet Vergil refers to the incapacitating effects of ligatures, while Ovid, the erotic poet, admits the power of such spell-bindings.

   1961, Harry E. Wedeck, Dictionary of Aphrodisiacs, New York: The Citadel Press, page 90