magic

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   an illusory feat

   considered magical by naive observers

2. 2
   noun

   The application of rituals or actions, especially those based on occult knowledge, to subdue or manipulate natural or supernatural beings and forces in order to have some benefit from them.

   “My magic will help you find true love,” said the witch as she looked for the right herbs in her collection.

3. 3
   noun

   Something producing successful and remarkable results, especially when not fully understood; an enchanting quality; exceptional skill.

   The original family who had begun to build a palace to outrival Nonesuch had died out before they had put up little more than the gateway, so that the actual structure which had come down to posterity retained the secret magic of a promise rather than the overpowering splendour of a great architectural achievement.

4. 4
   adj

   Having supernatural talents, properties or qualities attributed to magic.

   a magic wand

5. 5
   adj

   Producing extraordinary results, as though through the use of magic.

   a magic moment

6. 6
   adj

   Pertaining to conjuring tricks or illusions performed for entertainment etc.

   a magic show

7. 7
   adj

   Great; excellent.

   I cleaned up the flat while you were out. —Really? Magic!

8. 8
   adj

   Being a literal number or string value with no meaning or context, not defined as a constant or variable

   The code is full of magic numbers and we can't figure out what they mean.

Etymology

From Middle English magik, magyk, from Old French magique (noun and adjective), from Latin magicus (adjective), magica (noun use of feminine form of magicus), from Ancient Greek μαγικός (magikós, “magical”), from μάγος (mágos, “magus”). Ultimately from Old Iranian, probably derived from Proto-Indo-European *meh₂gʰ- (“to be able to, to help; power, sorcerer”). Displaced native Old English ġealdor (survived in Middle English galder), and dwimmer.