Are you looking for a way to describe someone that appeared 'enchanted' or an 'enchanted' land in a story?
You could use the word 'Encanto' to describe the mystical nature of the situation. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The expression 'Encanto' is a Spanish word translating to 'enchanted' or 'charmed.' It can refer to a charming or enchanting village in a secluded part of the country. Or it could refer to someone acting under the 'spell' of another person's charm or beauty.
The Spanish 'Encanto' originates from the Latin word 'ingratus,' meaning thankless, ungrateful, unpleasant, or disagreeable.
Encanto can refer to a person that's not acting in a rational manner because they are fascinated with someone else. They may follow that person around and do anything they ask. The object of their affection may abuse this power or appreciate and nourish it, depending on the person's character.
The word 'Encanto' can also refer to a low-income crime-infested ghetto area in southern California. It's an open-air drug market, and tent cities are common in all areas.
Example Usage
“Did you see Juan today? He’s acting all strange around the new girl. It’s like she’s a temptress, and he’s Encanto for her. He’ll do anything she wants.”
“I’ve had those moments with women where I’ve felt Encanto and under their spell. It’s best to take a step back and examine the relationship if you find yourself acting out of character.”
“If you’re ‘Encanto,’ you’re enchanted by someone else. Maybe it’s their beauty or personality, but you feel spellbound whenever they’re around.”
“Some people say ‘Encanto’ is similar o puppy love. While it might have some similarities, it’s very different and can happen to both men and women, at any age.”
Origin
The expression 'Encanto' originates from the Spanish language. However, the word's popularization comes from the Walt Disney movie of the same name. It's a children's movie, released on 24 November 2021, featuring Latin-American character references.
The movie takes place in the imaginary land of 'Casita,' a charming town where miracles and magic live. The film uses many symbolic references to enchantment. The presence of butterflies throughout scenes in the movie symbolizes Encanto's magical home as a cocoon for the Madrigals. It provides protection from the threats that exist beyond the town's walls.
Phrases Similar to Encanto
- Spellbound.
Phrases Opposite to Encanto
- Cursed.
What is the Correct Saying?
- Encanto.
Ways People May Say Encanto Incorrectly
Some may assume that someone displaying ‘encanto’ is acting under a ‘curse.’ However, ‘encanto’ is more aligned with a ‘spell’ than a curse. Typically, a curse involves malicious intent, while a spell may have a neutral or positive effect. Using ‘encanto’ to describe evil magic or voodoo is incorrect.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Encanto
You can use the phrase ‘encanto’ when you want to describe someone that seems like they are acting under a ‘spell.’ The person appears infatuated with their object of affection, and they don’t act rationally around them. It’s a way of saying someone is acting out of character due to the influence of others.
The phrase suits professional and social use. You could say the manager at work is acting strangely around the new secretary, or your friend is acting out of character around someone they find attractive. ‘Encanto’ means that the person doesn’t normally behave this way, and they are behaving out of character due to another person’s influence.