charisma

noun

cha·ris·ma kə-ˈriz-mə

: a personal magic of leadership arousing special popular loyalty or enthusiasm for a public figure (such as a political leader)

His success was largely due to his charisma.

: a special magnetic charm or appeal

the charisma of a popular actor

Did you know?

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

The candidate was lacking in charisma. His success is largely due to his charisma.

Recent Examples on the Web

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Thompson has been the Hartman-like glue for innumerable casts over his two-plus decades on the show, his easy professionalism and charisma always being an invaluable asset. —

Dennis Perkins, EW.com, 16 Feb. 2025 Tokio Hotel formed in 2001, with Bill Kaulitz’s unique style and charisma becoming wildly influential in Germany over the two following decades. —

Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 13 Feb. 2025 Dunbar, who played 27 seasons with the Globetrotters and now is in his 48th year connected with the franchise, was a fan of Woodard’s charisma and skills — everything the team looks for in a potential star. —

Shakeia Taylor, The Athletic, 13 Feb. 2025 His stoic—albeit slightly emotionally-stunted—demeanor is the exact opposite of Daniel’s irresistible charisma. —

Olivia-Anne Cleary, TIME, 13 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for charisma