Charm Crossword Clue

Synonym of Charm crossword clue. TWO SPEED crossword question in The Courier-Mail on Monday, 19 Jun 2017. 11 letters

The cryptic clue: I can’t disturb the whole nation for a spell

Answer: INCANTATION

An incantation or enchantment is a charm or spell created using words. An incantation may take place during a ritual, either a hymn or prayer, and may invoke or praise a deity. In magic, occultism, shamanism, and witchcraft it is used with the intention of casting a spell on an object or a person. The term derives from Latin “incantare” (tr.), meaning “to chant (a magical spell) upon,” from in- “into, upon” and cantare “to sing”.

In medieval literature, folklore, fairy tales and modern fantasy fiction, enchantments (from the Old French “enchantement”) are charms or spells. The term was loaned into English since around AD 1300. The corresponding native English term being “galdr” “song, spell”. It has led to the terms “enchanter” and “enchantress”, for those who use enchantments.