charm 1 of 2

1
as in amulet
something worn or kept to bring good luck or keep away evil an old cap that I use as a charm for whenever I play softball

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
3
4
as in pendant
an ornament worn on a chain around the neck or wrist a dangling charm in the figure of a horse on her bracelet

Synonyms & Similar Words

charm

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word charm different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of charm are allure, attract, captivate, enchant, and fascinate. While all these words mean "to draw another by exerting a powerful influence," charm implies the power of casting a spell over the person or thing affected and so compelling a response, but it may, like captivate, suggest no more than evoking delight or admiration.

charmed by their hospitality
her performances captivated audiences

When could allure be used to replace charm?

Although the words allure and charm have much in common, allure implies an enticing by what is fair, pleasing, or seductive.

an alluring smile

When can attract be used instead of charm?

The words attract and charm are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, attract applies to any degree or kind of ability to exert influence over another.

students attracted by the school's locale

When might enchant be a better fit than charm?

While in some cases nearly identical to charm, enchant is perhaps the strongest of these terms in stressing the appeal of the agent and the degree of delight evoked in the subject.

hopelessly enchanted by her beauty

When would fascinate be a good substitute for charm?

The synonyms fascinate and charm are sometimes interchangeable, but fascinate suggests a magical influence and tends to stress the ineffectiveness of attempts to resist.

a story that continues to fascinate children

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of charm
Noun
Kevin and Daniela Trice purchased Dairy Kastle in 2024, maintaining its nostalgic charm. Amanda Hancock, The Courier-Journal, 11 July 2025 In that way, Broken Voices is about the circumstances that allow abuse to happen; Vitek is like a vampire, a cold and distant creature capable of great charm, and Karolina, in all her disarming naivety, is easy prey. Damon Wise, Deadline, 10 July 2025
Verb
Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek (No. 2) also charmed guests with its historic setting and dining options that give a nod to North Texas’s ranching heritage. Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 8 July 2025 Malaparte's method is to charm his interlocutors into relaxing and casually exposing their monstrous selves. Thomas Meaney, New Yorker, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for charm
Recent Examples of Synonyms for charm
Noun
  • There are also equippable amulets that offer passive and combo-specific bonuses.
    Zackery Cuevas, PC Magazine, 14 June 2025
  • Signature brand pieces include amulets, angels, royal blue moonstones and more.
    Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 6 June 2025
Noun
  • The appeal will also involve an oral argument during which attorneys for the NFL and NFLPA field questions from the panel.
    Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 14 July 2025
  • Additionally, weaker interest rates often result in a softer U.S. dollar, enhancing the appeal of alternative stores of value.
    Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
Noun
  • Ultimately, in order to protect the world from multiversal chaos, Peter Parker must allow the Sorcerer Supreme to complete the spell.
    Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 14 July 2025
  • Sit for a spell on the gracious front porch or have a meal in the elegant onsite eatery.
    Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 13 July 2025
Noun
  • Her dad keeps her close on game day The Yankees slugger has been seen wearing a dazzling custom pendant in the shape of a gavel, a nod to his All Rise Foundation and his commanding presence at the plate.
    Nasha Smith, People.com, 8 July 2025
  • Seed beads, charms, fresh water pearls, Czech glass, pendants, tools, stringing materials, findings and more.
    Luann Gibbs, The Enquirer, 2 July 2025
Verb
  • Long fascinated by the moa, Jackson and Walsh have been collecting bones of the extinct bird for years.
    Degen Pener, HollywoodReporter, 8 July 2025
  • Michael Karin has long been fascinated by what happens when inflammation — ideally a short-term burst of biological activity to promote healing or fight infection — turns chronic and potentially deadly.
    Noah Lyons, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 July 2025
Verb
  • Marvel at Nocturnal Birdlife Across the United Kingdom The United Kingdom may not possess the towering megafauna found across Asia and Africa, but according to Adventure Tours UK Co-Founder Claire Copeman, there’s plenty of captivating wildlife to encounter across Great Britain during the night.
    Jared Ranahan, Forbes.com, 16 July 2025
  • Newton possessed the speed to beat defenders, but had the strength of a fullback.
    Justin Grasso, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 July 2025
Noun
  • Initial necklaces might be a timeless staple of modern jewelry and accessorizing, but the concept of wearing personalized pendants dates back to ancient civilizations, when people in ancient Egypt and Rome wore talismans to symbolize their identity.
    Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 25 June 2025
  • Other clues include: The talismans the Fromville survivors hang on their doors are reminiscent of past traditions.
    Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
Verb
  • In this enchanting new adventure, Princess Tiana brings her whole community together for a spectacular parade.
    Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 11 July 2025
  • Here's to the tracks with enchanting bridges, haunting vocals and vault tracks have felt like secret letters.
    Bryan West, The Tennessean, 10 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Charm.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/charm. Accessed 23 Jul. 2025.

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