Magic has 7 different meanings across 3 categories:
Noun · Adjective · Proper Noun
any art that invokes supernatural powers
"The old book of magic contained spells to summon spirits and heal wounds through supernatural power."
an illusory feat; considered magical by naive observers
"The street performer's coin trick amazed the children, who were convinced it was genuine magic rather than just sleight of hand."
The application of rituals or actions, especially those based on occult knowledge, to subdue or manipulate natural or supernatural beings and forces in order to have some benefit from them
"The village elder performed ancient magic to calm the storm that threatened their harvest."
In plain English: Magic is when something happens that seems impossible or cannot be explained by normal rules.
"The children were amazed by the magic of the disappearing rabbit."
Usage: In everyday usage, magic refers to the supernatural ability to perform extraordinary feats that defy natural laws. Use this term when describing events or powers that seem impossible without scientific explanation.
To produce, transform (something), (as if) by magic.
"The chef managed to turn raw ingredients into a gourmet feast in minutes as if by magic."
In plain English: To do something that seems impossible because it defies normal rules.
"The magician waved his wand to make the rabbit disappear."
Usage: Use "magic" as a verb when describing an action that produces a surprising or impossible result instantly, often implying skill or trickery rather than literal supernatural power. Avoid using it to describe actual magical spells in fantasy settings unless you are specifically referring to the act of casting them.
possessing or using or characteristic of or appropriate to supernatural powers
"charming incantations"
"magic signs that protect against adverse influence"
"a magical spell"
"'tis now the very witching time of night"
"wizard wands"
"wizardly powers"
Having supernatural talents, properties or qualities attributed to magic.
"The old woman waved her glowing wand and suddenly a magnificent rainbow arched across the sky."
In plain English: Magic describes something that seems impossible or too good to be true.
"The magician performed some real magic tricks that amazed everyone in the room."
Usage: Use "magic" as an adjective to describe something that seems extraordinary, impossible, or enchanting in a way that defies normal explanation. Avoid using it to literally mean supernatural powers unless you are referring to fantasy fiction or specific magical traditions.
An Allied cryptanalysis project, during and prior to World War II, that decrypted Japanese messages.
"The intelligence officers relied on the Magic program to intercept and decode critical Japanese naval communications before the attack on Pearl Harbor."
The word "magic" comes from the Latin adjective magicus, which was borrowed from Ancient Greek for "magical." Its ultimate origin traces back to an Old Iranian root meaning "to be able to, to help," or "power."