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
Jessica Lynch, Billboard, 4 June 2025
Randy Breed: Mixed Age: 10 months Randy is a fabulous guy who navigates the world around him with charisma and positive energy, despite being deaf.
—Trish Stinger, Kansas City Star, 4 June 2025
Mercury entering Leo on June 26 will give us all a boost in charisma and courage, but not without requiring honesty first.
—Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 June 2025
People from all walks of life responded to his humility, charisma and outspokenness.
—Laura Castañeda, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 May 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 10 Jun. 2025.
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charisma
noun
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