charisma
noun
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The Greek word charisma means "favor" or "gift." It comes from the verb charizesthai ("to favor"), which in turn comes from the noun charis, meaning "grace." In English, charisma was originally used in Christian contexts to refer to a gift or power bestowed upon an individual by the Holy Spirit for the good of the Church—a sense that is now very rare. These days, we use the word to refer to social, rather than divine, grace. For instance, a leader with charisma may easily gain popular support, and a job applicant with charisma may shine in an interview.
Examples of charisma in a Sentence
Photovogue, Vogue, 12 Mar. 2025
And the public doesn’t see that charisma in his three children, including current Vice President Sara Duterte.
—Lisandro Claudio, The Conversation, 12 Mar. 2025
Her appeal is mostly based on her music, savvy creative direction, and considerable charisma.
—Andre Gee, Rolling Stone, 10 Mar. 2025
Along with Jordan, viewers get a rare look at Bulls legends like Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, and Steve Kerr, delving into their personal and professional lives and revealing their rivalries, motivations, and unstoppable charisma.
—Lisa Wong MacAbasco, Vogue, 7 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for charisma
Cite this Entry
“Charisma.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/charisma. Accessed 20 Apr. 2025.
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charisma
noun
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