The phrase "hold under a spell" refers to the act of captivating or enchanting someone to the extent that they are under the influence or control of a person, situation, or thing. It encompasses the idea of exerting a powerful and irresistible influence over someone's thoughts, emotions, or actions, rendering them fascinated, engrossed, or bewitched.
When someone is held under a spell, they become so deeply engrossed or enamored with a specific individual or situation that they find it difficult to think or act independently. They are typically enthralled or mesmerized by the object of their fascination, finding themselves under its irresistible influence. This concept often implies that the person under the spell is no longer in full control of their thoughts or behaviors, as they may be blindly following or obsessing over someone or something.
To hold someone under a spell can be achieved through a variety of means, ranging from the use of charm, seduction, or even magic, to simply having an irresistible charisma, power, or influence. The spellbinders may hold this power knowingly or unknowingly, intentionally or unintentionally. Regardless of the method employed, the result is that the person being held under a spell becomes completely fixated or enraptured, with their thoughts and actions being predominantly influenced by the spellbinder.
Overall, being held under a spell implies a state of temporary or enduring captivation, wherein someone's thoughts, emotions, or actions are greatly influenced, if not controlled, by a powerful entity or situation.
