Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary · 1913

Fascinate

Fascinate , transitive verb

[Latin fascinare; compare Greek {not transcribed} to slander, bewitch.]

1.
To influence in an uncontrollable manner; to operate on by some powerful or irresistible charm; to bewitch; to enchant.
It has been almost universally believed that... serpents can stupefy and fascinate the prey which they are desirous to obtain. — Griffith (Cuvier)
2.
To excite and allure irresistibly or powerfully; to charm; to captivate, as by physical or mental charms.
There be none of the passions that have been noted to fascinate or bewitch but love and envy. — Bacon