A Cantrip

Cantrip

Etymology

The origin is uncertain. The word is recorded in Scots as cantrip, meaning a magic spell, trick, or mischievous act. It is often connected with Scots cantrip (“a spell, charm, or trick”), but the deeper etymology is disputed. Some proposed connections relate it to words meaning “chant” or “trick,” though no explanation is universally accepted.

Meanings

• A magic spell or enchantment, especially a minor one.
• A magical trick or piece of sorcery.
• In fantasy role-playing games, a very minor spell that can be used repeatedly or without expending significant magical resources.
• Figuratively, a clever trick or playful deception.

Arabic equivalents

• تعويذة بسيطة
• سِحر صغير / تعويذة سحرية
• حيلة سحرية
• In role-playing games: تعويذة ابتدائية or سحر بسيط قابل للتكرار.

Norwegian equivalents

• trylleformular — تعويذة سحرية.
• trolldom** — سحر أو شعوذة.
• liten trylleformel — تعويذة صغيرة.
• In fantasy games: enkel magi or nybegynnerformel — سحر بسيط أو تعويذة للمبتدئين.