charismatic

1 of 2

adjective

char·​is·​mat·​ic ˌker-əz-ˈma-tik 

ˌka-rəz-

1

: having, exhibiting, or based on charisma or charism

charismatic sects

a charismatic leader

2

: of, relating to, or constituting charisma or charism

charismatic gifts

charismatic

2 of 2

noun

plural charismatics

1

: a member of a religious group or movement that stresses the seeking of direct divine inspiration and charisms (such as glossolalia or healing)

2

: a person who possesses special traits that attract, inspire, or fascinate other people : a person possessing charisma

One of those people like Teddy Roosevelt or Mick Jagger. He was just one of those great charismatics who turned heads and dominated a room.

—Dan Aykroyd

Synonyms

Adjective

• alluring
• appealing
• attractive
• bewitching
• captivating
• charming
• elfin
• enchanting
• engaging
• entrancing
• fascinating
• fetching
• glamorous
• glamourous
• luring
• magnetic
• seductive

Examples of charismatic in a Sentence

Adjective

He is a charismatic leader.

the cult's charismatic leader had managed to persuade seemingly rational people to obey him blindly

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Musawi’s assassination led to the rise of the more charismatic Nasrallah. —Sarah E. Parkinson, Foreign Affairs, 11 Nov. 2024

Engage in rhetoric that’s challenging, charismatic and caring. —Eugenia Last, The Mercury News, 9 Nov. 2024

Noun

Contemporary Black Pentecostals and charismatics are turning the page on their history of political apathy – whether through public endorsements, voter registration drives or as part of groups such as the Black Church PAC. —Dara Delgado, The Conversation, 3 Oct. 2024

These non-denominational charismatics are very focused on modern prophecy, the belief that there are modern prophets. —Dan Rodricks, Baltimore Sun, 23 Jan. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

charisma

First Known Use

Adjective

circa 1868, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Noun

1881, in the meaning defined at sense 1