English · Word Candidate

charming

/ˈtʃɑː(ɹ).mɪŋ/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: charminger · charmingest · charmest · charmings

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Pleasant, charismatic.

Adjective

Examples

"What a charming amusement for young people this is, Mr. Darcy! There is nothing like dancing after all. I consider it as one of the first refinements of polished society."

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Delightful in a playful way which avoids responsibility or seriousness, as if attracting through a magical charm.

Adjective

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

The casting of a magical charm.

Noun

Examples

They denied me often flour, barm and milk, / Goose-grease and tar, when I ne'er hurt their charmings, / Their brewlocks, nor their batches, nor forespoke / Any of their breedings.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

Used in response to behaviour or language considered offensive or uncouth.

Interjection

Examples

The other murderer is sadistically hacked to pieces, while the proceedings are being videoed – and the DVD is sent to Nick's home so that his daughter can see it. Oh, charming.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “charming” mean?

Pleasant, charismatic.

Is “charming” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.