noun
mesmerism
A historical theory of healing through an invisible force in living beings.
Mesmerism attributes healing to an invisible force within living beings.
Etymology
Mesmerism is named after Franz Anton Mesmer. His theory proposed an invisible animal magnetism through which a practitioner could influence health and bodily states.
More examples
- The museum exhibit explores the popularity of mesmerism among eighteenth-century patients.
- Practitioners of mesmerism claimed they could direct an invisible healing force.
- Her research examines mesmerism as a historical theory of healing.
Forms
mesmerism
mesmerist noun — a practitioner of historical animal magnetism
Similar words
- animal magnetism
- Names the supposed force as well as the healing theory.