Abracadabra
/ˌæbrə.kəˈdæb.rə/noun
A word used in magic as an incantation or spell.
Did you know?The term 'Abracadabra' is believed to have originated in ancient Rome as a charm to ward off illness, inscribed in a triangular shape to amplify its power.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Semitic
Semitic
ʔabrahāḳā
“I create as I speak.”
1st Century CE
Latin
abracadabra
“A magical phrase used in protective rituals.”
3rd Century CE
Greek
ἀβρακάδἀβρα
“A mystic term thought to invoke divine protection.”
Medieval Latin
Medieval Latin
abracadabra
“Used in talismans to ward off fever.”
16th Century
English
abracadabra
“Adopted into English as a magical incantation.”