GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

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  1.       
    Incantation (?), n. [L. incantatio, fr. incantare to chant a magic formula over one: cf. F. incantation. See Enchant.]

    [1913 Webster]


    1. The act or process of using formulas sung or spoken, with occult ceremonies, for the purpose of raising spirits, producing enchantment, or affecting other magical results; enchantment. “Mysterious ceremony and incantation.” Burke.

    [1913 Webster]


    2. A formula of words used as above.

    [1913 Webster]


    3. The repetitive invoking of old sayings, or emitting a wordy discourse with little or no meaning, to avoid serious discussion; obfuscation; as, “to defend one's views with empty incantations”.

    [PJC]

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