charismata

Variant of charisma

charisma definition

cha·risma (kə riz′mə)

noun pl. charismata -·mata (-mə tə)

  1. Christian Theol. a divinely inspired gift, grace, or talent, as for prophesying, healing, etc.
    also charism char′·ism′ (kar′iz′əm)
  2. a special quality of leadership that captures the popular imagination and inspires allegiance and devotion
  3. a special charm or allure that inspires fascination or devotion the film star's charisma

Etymology: Gr(Ec), gift of God's grace < Gr, favor, grace < charizesthai, to show favor to < charis, grace, beauty, kindness < chairein, to rejoice at < IE base *ĝher-, to desire, like > yearn

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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