incantate means to sing or speak formulas and/or rhyming words, often during occult ceremonies, for the purpose of raising spirits, producing enchantment, or creating other magical results. Lexicurio rates it Sui generis — a strength score of 87 out of 100.
Why this word is great
INCANTATE — [Verb] To intone rhythmic, formulaic speech with the precise intent of effecting magical change through patterned utterance. From Latin incantātus, perfect passive participle of incantō ("to sing or chant a magical formula upon, to enchant"), from in- ("upon") + cantō ("to sing, chant"). Unlike "chant" (which denotes rhythmic, often devotional repetition without inherent magic) or "enchant" (which names the resultant state of charm), to incantate is the deliberate, performative act of vocal alchemy itself. It is the low, resonant hum that thickens the air in a candlelit circle, the measured cadence that makes a flame gutter and stand erect, the sibilant whisper over dark water that clouds its surface with visions—the frail human voice, for a moment, imposing a new logic upon the silent indifference of the world.
verb
- To sing or speak formulas and/or rhyming words, often during occult ceremonies, for the purpose of raising spirits, producing enchantment, or creating other magical results.“Your modern witch never incantates in public.”