witchcraft

noun

Etymology: From Middle English wicchecraft, wicchecreft, from Old English wiċċecræft, equivalent to witch + -craft.

1. The practice of witches; magic, sorcery, or the use of supernatural powers to influence or predict events.

   “Wiccans believe in a modernised form of witchcraft.”

   “Such witchcraft has no power now to show itself, because the people don't believe in it any more.”

2. Black magic; the use of witchcraft for evil means.

   “The Bible warns against the use of witchcraft and sorcery.”

3. Something, such as an advanced technology, that seems almost magical.

   “There can be no denying that the more than 100 exhibiting companies and divisions also gave full play to examples of their latest technological witchcraft, as befits the foremost US aerospace event.”

4. An irresistible or seemingly magical influence.