abracadabra etymology

English word abracadabra comes from Late Latin abracadabra

Detailed word origin of abracadabra

Dictionary entryLanguageDefinition
abracadabra Late Latin (LL)
abracadabra English (eng) Used to indicate that a magic trick or other illusion has been performed. [from 19th c.] A use of the mystical term ‘abracadabra’, supposed to work as part of a healing charm or a magical spell; any spell or incantation making use of the word. [from 16th c.]. Mumbo-jumbo; obscure language or technicalities; jargon. [from 19th c.].