charisma definition - Dictionary

Dictionary

cha·ris·ma [ kə rízmə ]

noun

Definition:

1. personal magnetism: the ability to inspire enthusiasm, interest, or affection in others by means of personal charm or influence

2. (plural cha·ris·ma·ta [ kə rízmətə ]) divine gift: a gift or power believed to be divinely bestowed

[Mid-17th century. Via ecclesiastical Latin< Greek kharisma< kharis "favor, grace"]

Word Usage


	Charisma meaning "personal magnetism": In their generalized meanings, charisma and charismatic have moved a long way from their original meanings in theology, where they referred to supernatural gifts of speaking, healing, and so on. The modern meanings have developed from a use in sociology, in which the sense is "power of leadership or authority," first used in translations of the German sociologist Max Weber (1864-1920).