Sim-Sala-Bim
/ˌsɪm.səˈlɑː.bɪm/noun
A fanciful incantation uttered by a magician or conjurer, used to suggest that magic has occurred.
Did you know?Unlike “abracadabra,” Sim-Sala-Bim has no securely established ancient linguistic root; it became famous largely through modern stage magic, especially the performances of the magician Dante.
Etymological Timeline
19th Century
German
Simsalabim
“A documented theatrical or colloquial magic formula; its precise origin is uncertain.”
Late 19th–Early 20th Century
European stage language
Sim sala bim
“A conjurer’s spoken formula used during demonstrations of magic.”
Early 20th Century
English
sim-sala-bim
“An imported or imitated magic utterance associated with stage performers.”
20th Century
English
Sim-Sala-Bim
“A fanciful phrase used to dramatize sudden transformation or magical action.”
Modern English
English
simsalabim
“A noun or interjection referring to a magician’s incantation or theatrical magic formula.”
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