Măg'net-ism, n.
n. [Fr. magnetisme, It. & Sp. magnetismo.]
Sense 1. The agent or force in nature which gives rise to the phenomena of attraction, polarity, &c., exhibited by the loadstone and other magnetic bodies; the property of being magnetic.
Sense 2. The science which treats of magnetic phenomena.
Sense 3. Power of attraction; as, the magnetism of interest. Glanville.
Animal magnetism, a supposed agent of a peculiar and mysterious nature, said to have a powerful influence on the patient when acted upon by contact with, or by the will of, the operator; mesmerism. See MESMERISM. — Terrestrial magnetism, the magnetic force or influence exerted by the earth, and recognized by its effect upon magnetized needles and bars.