Spells in Harry Potter

From Annex

In the magical| world of the Harry Potter series of fictional novels by J. K. Rowling, many things are accomplished through the use of magical spells| by the characters. A more general discussion of spells and similar magic in the world of J. K. Rowling can be found in the article Magic (Harry Potter).

This article is about spells that are specifically mentioned and/or demonstrated in the novels or other writings of J. K. Rowling, as opposed to spells that appear only in the movies or games.

[edit] Magical language in Harry Potter

Spell incantations are drawn from words and phrases used in several languages, particularly Latin|. While author J.K. Rowling studied Classics and the French language in Paris, she is not a linguist; her aim was primarily to tell a good story, and not to create a consistent linguistic system. Thus various "magical terms" used in the books may not be entirely consistent; most spells resemble Latin words of appropriate meaning, but are not exactly Latin themselves.

[edit] Non-verbal spells

Most spells are listed by their incantation, with their vernacular name in parentheses, when known. Some spells have no known incantation– the only canonical reference is by an informal name. It is possible to omit shouting the incantation aloud in order to gain a tactical advantage when duelling; such spells can generally only be identified by their effects. As most people, including skilled adults, appear to generally use incantations, saying them aloud seems generally preferable in terms of efficacy.

Contents
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

[edit] A

[edit] Accio (Summoning Charm)

Pronunciation: Various suggestions have been made:

['ɑkkio] (AK-ee-o) - classical Latin (film)

['ɑksio] (AK-see-o) - (audiobook)

['æsio] (AH-see-o) - (Scholastic) English

Description: This charm summons an object to the caster, potentially over a significant distance. It can be used in two ways: by casting the charm, and then naming the object desired ("Accio Firebolt"), or by pointing the wand at the desired object during or immediately following the incantation to "pull" it toward the user. In either case, the caster must concentrate upon the object they wish to summon in order for the charm to succeed. The caster doesn't necessarily need to know the location if they say the name of the object to be summoned. This is proven when Hermione explains in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows that she summoned the Horcrux books from Dumbledore's office by merely saying "Accio Horcrux books!" while in Gryffindor Tower.

Seen/Mentioned: The spell is used throughout the series, most notably when Harry summoned his broom to complete the first task of the Triwizard Tournament, in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, as well as to summon the Portkey to escape in the Battle of the Graveyard. It is also used in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows to try to summon the Horcruxes, and Harry even tries to summon a falling Hagrid. However, these attempts never succeeded. It was also used as a quicker way to find objects in Hermione's depth-enlarged beaded handbag.

Etymology: The Latin word accio means "I call" or "I summon".^[1]

[edit] (Age-Line Spell)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Creates a line that is impassable by people below a set age.

Seen/Mentioned: This was used by Albus Dumbledore| in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire to stop underage students from placing their names into the Goblet of Fire, as potential candidates for the Triwizard Tournament.

Notes: The Age-Line is impassable even by users of age-potions (proven by Fred and George). Thus, it works for calendar age, not physical age.

[edit] Aguamenti

Pronunciation: AH-gwa-MEN-tee or AGUA-menti (IPA: /a.g^wə.'mɛn.ti/)

Description: Produces a jet of water from the witch or wizard's wand.

Seen/Mentioned: Used by Fleur Delacour in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire to put out her skirt, which had caught fire during her challenge against a dragon. Harry uses it twice in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince: once in an attempt to give Dumbledore a drink to lessen the effects of Voldemort's potion, and once to douse Hagrid's hut after it was set on fire by a Death Eater. Hermione used it to put out Mundungus's searing eyebrows in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. It was used again by Harry in the same book in an attempt to douse Vincent Crabbe's Fiendfyre curse.

Etymology: Possibly an extension of Spanish words agua ("water") and mente ("mind").

[edit] Alohomora

Pronunciation: AL-lo-ha-MOR-ah (IPA: /ə'lo.həˌmo.ɹə/)

Description: Used to open and unlock doors. It is not effective on doors bewitched to resist this spell.

Seen/Mentioned: Used throughout the series, its first use was by Hermione Granger in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone on the third floor corridor door in Hogwarts, behind which was Fluffy|.

Etymology: Probably an abbreviated form of the dog Latin sentence "alo hoc mora" intended to mean "I raise this barrier" ^[2], or possibly from the Hawaiian| aloha, meaning "hello" or, as in this case, "farewell", coupled with the Latin mora, meaning "obstacle".

Notes: The spell can also be used to unseal doors upon which the Colloportus spell| has been cast.

[edit] Anapneo

Pronunciation: ah-NAP-nee-oh (IPA: /ə.'næp.ni.əʊ/)

Description: Clears the target's airway, if blocked.

Seen/Mentioned: Professor Slughorn cast this on Marcus Belby when the latter began to choke in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

Etymology: From the Greek verb anapneo (αναπνεω), "I breathe in". Compare apnea.

Notes: Anapneo and Episkey|, which are first used in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, are the first spells in the series derived from Greek.

[edit] (Anti-Cheating Spell)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Cast on parchment to prevent the writer from cheating while writing answers.

Seen/Mentioned: Near exam times at Hogwarts (see Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix).

[edit] (Anti-Disapparition Jinx)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Used to prevent Disapparition| in an area for a time. Presumably can be used to prevent an enemy from entering a defended area, or used to trap an enemy in an area.

Seen/Mentioned: Used by Albus Dumbledore in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix during the Death Eater attack on the Department of Mysteries|. It was also cast long ago on the Hogwarts grounds, presumably by the Hogwarts Headmaster| of the time.

[edit] (Antonin Dolohov's Curse)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: The curse appears to cause serious internal injury, but it does not show any external symptoms. It is cast with a slashing motion, and it sends out zigzagging purple flames.

Seen/Mentioned: Used by Antonin Dolohov| three times during the battle between the Death Eaters and members of Dumbledore's Army at the Ministry of Magic (Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix).

Notes: Shortly after Hermione| used the silencing charm on Dolohov, he cast this spell at her just by mouthing the words. The spell hit her in the stomach, massively injuring but not killing her. It is implied in the text that the spell's effect may have been weakened by Dolohov's inability to say the incantation. However, Dolohov later regained the use of his voice and appeared to use the spell non-verbally again, so it is possible the spell is designed to be non-verbal.

[edit] Aparecium

Pronunciation: AH-par-EE-see-um (IPA: /æ.pə'ɹi.si.ʌm/)

Description: This spell makes invisible ink, and perhaps invisible items in general, appear.

Seen/Mentioned: First used in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, when Hermione Granger tries to make any hidden writing appear in Tom Marvolo Riddle's diary|.

Etymology: The Latin apparere means "to appear". It is unclear from where the end of the word (-ecium) originates. The word "paramecium" is a New Latin word for a genus of protozoa; the segment -mecium here appears to be derived from the Greek mekes (μεκης), "length". In addition, -ium and -cium are not uncommon as Latin noun endings. It is probable that Rowling simply intended a meaningless mock-Latin ending.

Notes: See also Specialis Revelio|.

[edit] (Apparition/Disapparition)

Pronunciation: None

Description: Causes the user to magically teleport from one place to another. It is imprecise over long distances.

Seen/Mentioned: Used throughout the series, but not allowed to perform if under the age of 17. Harry and his classmates take classes in Apparition in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

Notes: If done incorrectly, the user can splinch themselves, causing a part of their body to be separated and left behind.

[edit] (Atmospheric Charm)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Modifies or creates certain weather conditions; can be applied indoors as well.

Seen/Mentioned: First seen in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, it apparently malfunctioned which caused rain to fall in Yaxley's| office at the Ministry.

[edit] Avada Kedavra (Killing Curse)

Main article: Wikipedia:Unforgivable Curses

Pronunciation: uh-VAH-dah kuh-DAHV-rah (IPA: /ə.'væ.də kə.'dæv.ɹə/)

Description: One of the three "Unforgivable Curses". Causes instant, painless death, and leaves no physical signs of cause of death. There is no known counter-curse or blocking spell, but the spell can be blocked by physical cover (which will be heavily damaged in the process), and the caster is still required to aim to hit the target. This spell produces a flash of green light; just before it hits the target, a rushing sound (similar to an oncoming high-speed object) is heard.

Seen/Mentioned: Throughout the series. Most notably, this was the spell used to kill Harry Potter|'s parents. Lord Voldemort is known for killing many people with his curse.

Etymology: From the Aramaic אבדא כדברא avada kedavra, meaning I destroy as I speak.

[edit] Avis

Pronunciation: AH-vis (IPA: /a'vɪs/)

Description: This charm creates a flock of birds which pour forth from the caster's wand. When coupled with Oppugno|, it can be used offensively.

Seen/Mentioned: Used in Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire by Mr Ollivander to test Viktor Krum's wand. It is also employed by Hermione| in Harry Potter and the Half-blood Prince, along with Oppugno| against Ron|.

Etymology: The Latin avis means "bird".

[edit] B

[edit] (Bat-Bogey Hex)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Grotesquely enlarges the target's "bogies" (British slang for nasal mucus, also known as "boogers" in the U.S.), gives them wings, and sets them attacking the target.

Seen/Mentioned: Particularly in reference to Ginny Weasley, who uses it on Draco Malfoy in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix and on Zacharias Smith| in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. Ginny is considered to be an accomplished caster of this particular hex.

Notes: This may also be the "Curse of the Bogies" mentioned by Ron in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone as a potential punishment should either Hermione| or Neville| get him and Harry in trouble. However, "bogey" can also mean a monster or a spectre.

[edit] (Bedazzling Hex)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Similar to a Disillusionment Charm|, it can be used to conceal a person or an object.

Seen/Mentioned: By Xenophilius Lovegood in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows when describing how Harry's invisibility cloak is the only thing that can make a person truly invisible, not requiring a Disillusionment Charm or a Bedazzling Hex.

Notes: Is used to make invisibility cloaks, although cloaks made by using a Bedazzling Hex are not true cloaks of invisibility.

[edit] (Bubble-Head Charm)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Puts a large bubble of air around the head of the user. Used as a magical equivalent of a breathing set.

Seen/Mentioned: Cedric Diggory and Fleur Delacour used this underwater in the second task of the Triwizard Tournament in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. It was also used by many Hogwarts students when walking through the hallways in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, because of the bad smells caused by the various pranks played on Dolores Umbridge.

[edit] C

[edit] (Caterwauling Charm)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Anyone entering the perimeter of a Caterwauling Charm sets off a high-pitched shriek.

Seen/Mentioned: Cast by Death Eaters over Hogsmeade to protect against intruders (Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows).

Notes: Could be another form of the Intruder Charm.

[edit] Cave Inimicum

Pronunciation: KAH-vay ih-nih-MEE-sum (IPA: {{IPA|/ˈkæ.ve ɪ.ˈnɪ.mɪ.kʌm/})

Description: Spell used to strengthen an enclosure from enemies. It is also possible, however, that this is the Intruder Charm mentioned by Professor Horace Slughorn| in the sixth book, which warns the caster of intruders within a certain set boundary and sets off a magical alarm.

Seen/Mentioned: Used by Hermione| and Harry| to strengthen their campsite's defences in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

Etymology: Latin căvĕa (an enclosure around a tree to protect from injury [may apply to tent]). Alternatively, Latin cavere ("to beware"), the imperative being cave, and Latin ĭnĭmīcus (Meaning unfriendly, hostile, and enemy). The incantation could also be taken to mean "warn of intruders" and not just "ward away intruders".

[edit] (Cheering Charm)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Causes the person upon whom the spell was cast to become happy and contented, though heavy-handedness with the spell may cause the person to break into an uncontrollable laughing fit.

Seen/Mentioned: First seen in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.

Notes: Invented by Felix Summerbee|.

[edit] Colloportus

Pronunciation: cul-loh-POR-tus (IPA: /kɔ.lo.ˈpɔ˞.təs/)

Description: This spell will magically lock a door, preventing it from being opened by Muggle means.

Seen/Mentioned: First in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by Hermione| in the Department of Mysteries| against some Death Eaters.

Etymology: Perhaps a portmanteau of the Latin words colligere ("gather" or "collect") and porta ("gate"). The Greek root kolla also means "glue" and becomes collo- in many English words. Notably, the spell causes a door to seal itself "with an odd squelching noise". It may also be derived from portcullis, which was used in medieval times as a barricade or last line of defence.

Notes: The Death Eaters did succeed in opening a door locked with Colloportus using Alohomora.

[edit] (Colour-Change Charm)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Changes an object's colour.

Seen/Mentioned: Used in Harry's Ordinary Wizarding Levels in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. It may also be the same charm as Harry uses in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince to change the colour of his eyebrow, before asking Luna to Slughorn's Christmas party. (Unlikely, as that was performed as a Transfiguration exercise, which is rather unrelated to Charms.)

[edit] (Concealment Charm)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Used to conceal something.

[edit] Confringo (Blasting Curse)

Pronunciation: con-FRIN-goh (hard "g") or con-FRIN-joh (IPA: /kʌn.ˈfɹɪŋ.gəʊ/ or /kʌn.ˈfɹɪn.dʒəʊ/)

Description: Causes anything that the spell comes into contact with to explode.

Seen/Mentioned: Used by Harry| to destroy the side-car of the flying motorbike during the battle against the Death Eaters in the beginning of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Later, Hermione uses it in an attempt to kill Nagini and facilitate an escape from Bathilda Bagshot's house in Godric's Hollow.

Etymology: Confringo is Latin for "I break".

[edit] Confundo (Confundus Charm)

Pronunciation: con-FUN-doh (IPA: /kʌn.ˈfʌn.dəʊ/)

Description: Causes the victim to become confused and befuddled.

Seen/Mentioned: First mentioned in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, when Severus Snape suggests that Harry and Hermione have been Confunded so that they will believe Sirius Black's claim to innocence. In Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, it is suggested that the Confundus Charm is responsible for the Goblet choosing a fourth Triwizard contestant. It is first seen in action when Hermione Granger uses it on Cormac McLaggen during Quidditch tryouts in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. The Confundus Charm is used multiple times in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows including: Severus Snape on Ministry of Magic Official John Dawlish|, Harry Potter while under his Invisibility Cloak on two Gringotts| wizard guards who are wielding Probity Probes, and again by Severus Snape on Mundungus Fletcher| under orders from Albus Dumbledore. While under the influence of the Confundus Charm, Mundungus| then "suggests" to the Order of the Phoenix| they use seven Harrys to confuse Voldemort| while they move him from Number Four Privet Drive| to The Burrow|. The Confundus Charm is also used in the epilogue by the adult Ron Weasley as the means used to pass his Muggle driving exam.

Etymology: The word "confundus" appears to be derived from the Latin confundere, meaning "to confuse; to perplex", whereas confundo means "I confuse". Similarly, it may also derive from the english word "confound".

[edit] (Conjunctivitus Curse)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: A curse that affects the victim's vision.

Seen/Mentioned: It is suggested by Sirius Black in the letter he sent Harry and used by Viktor Krum for the first task of the Triwizard Tournament in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. It was also used by Madame Maxime in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix on giants.

Etymology: Presumably, the common name is derived from the disease of that name|, more commonly known as "pink eye" or "caterpillar eye" due to its scabby inflammation.

[edit] Crucio (Cruciatus Curse)

Main article: Wikipedia:Unforgivable Curses

Pronunciation: KROO-see-oh (IPA: /ˈkɹu.si.əʊ/)

Description: Inflicts intense pain on the recipient of the curse. One of the three Unforgivable Curses.

Seen/Mentioned: First seen in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire when Barty Crouch Jr., impersonating the ex-Auror Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody|, uses it on a spider during a "class demonstration" in a Defence Against the Dark Arts| lecture. Later in the book, it is discovered that Barty Crouch Jr, Bellatrix Lestrange, Rodolphus Lestrange, and Rabastan Lestrange were sent to the wizard prison, Azkaban, for using the curse to torture Frank and Alice Longbottom|, parents of Neville Longbottom, to insanity.

Etymology: Latin crucio, "I torture" (perfect passive participle cruciatus).

[edit] (Cushioning Charm)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Creates an invisible cushioned area. Used primarily in broomstick manufacturing, to provide more comfort to the rider.

Seen/Mentioned: Mentioned in Quidditch Through the Ages and was used to cushion Harry, Ron, and Hermione's fall in Gringotts in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

[edit] D

[edit] (Daydream Charm)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Gives the spell caster a highly-realistic 30-minute daydream. Side effects include mild drooling and a vacant expression.

Seen/Mentioned: These were invented by Fred and George Weasley| and sold in The Half-Blood Prince at their joke shop, presumably in the form of some kind of physical object, similar to Skiving Snackboxes.

[edit] Defodio (Gouging Spell)

Pronunciation: deh-FOH-dee-oh (IPA: dɛ.ˈfəʊ.di.əʊ/)

Description: This spell causes deep gouges to appear in the object targeted by the spell.

Seen/Mentioned: Used by Hermione, Harry, and Ron in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows to help tunnel out of the Gringotts Tunnels while on the dragon as well as in their escape from Luna Lovegood's home, also in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

Etymology: Defodio is Latin for "I dig".

[edit] Deletrius

Pronunciation: deh-LEE-tree-us (IPA: /də.'li.tɹi.əs/)

Description: An erasure spell. It erases images and magical "after-effects".

Seen/Mentioned: First seen in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire when Amos Diggory| gets rid of the echo of the Dark Mark from Harry's wand.

Etymology: Latin delere, meaning "to destroy". A different tense spawns the English word "delete".

[edit] Densaugeo

Pronunciation: den-sah-OO-jee-oh /dɛn.'sɔ.dʒi.əʊ/)

Description: This hex makes the victim's teeth grow rapidly.

Seen/Mentioned: Introduced in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire when Draco Malfoy's| spell rebounds on Hermione| outside of the Potions classroom.

Etymology: From Latin dens, "tooth", and augeo, "I increase" or "I enlarge".

[edit] Descendo

Pronunciation: deh-SEN-doh (IPA: /dɛ.ˈsɛn.dəʊ/)

Description: The spell likely causes any targeted object to move downwards.

Seen/Mentioned: In Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, it is used by Ron| to magically cause the stairs in his room, which lead to the attic, to descend, as well as by Crabbe in the Room of Hidden Things to lower the wall behind which Ron is hiding.

Etymology: Descendo is Latin for "I descend".

[edit] Deprimo

Pronunciation: DEH-prih-moh.

Description: This spell places immense downward pressure upon its target, which may result in the violent fracturing of said target.

Seen/Mentioned: Introduced in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows when Hermione blasts a hole through a living room floor.

Etymology: Derived from the Latin deprimo, "I press down".

[edit] Diffindo (Severing Charm)

Pronunciation: dif-FIN-doh (IPA: /dɪ.'fɪn.dəʊ/)

Description: Tears the target or a specific area on the target.

Seen/Mentioned: In Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire when Harry urgently wants to talk to Cedric Diggory he casts this spell to rip his bag, delaying him for class. Ron also uses this spell to trim the lace off his dress robes in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. It was also used in Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince by Harry to change the covers of his second hand and brand new copies of Advanced Potion Making. The spell is also used multiple times throughout the course of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, for cutting ropes or bonds, etc.

Etymology: Latin diffindo, "I divide."^[3]

[edit] Dissendium

Pronunciation: dis-EN-dee-um (IPA: /dɪ.'sɛn.di.əm/)

Description: Causes the statue of the humpbacked witch hiding the secret passage to Honeydukes to open up.

Seen/Mentioned: First seen in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.

Etymology: Quite simply, a phonetic spelling of the English word "descend" with a common Latin noun ending attached (-ium). The name also vaguely suggests "dissident", meaning to be against the laws. It could also come from the Latin word Dissocio, which means to part or to separate (in its verb form). The word en can mean both here and look Dium, could refer to the sun and normally translates as day or, more appropriately, today but can also be used as the command now. Together Dissendium could mean Separate here, now.

Notes: This may not be a spell in the strict sense, but a magical password like "Mimbulus Mimbletonia" (once a password for the Fat Lady|) and "Acid Pops" (one of the passwords for Dumbledore's office gargoyle in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince). However, it is mentioned that Harry has to tap the statue of the crone while saying the spell in order for it to open up. Also, the name of the spell is similar to the way other spells are named, suggesting that it may be a spell in its own right.

[edit] (Disillusionment Charm)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Causes the target to become able to change colour to match their background, effectively hiding them without making them invisible.

Seen/Mentioned: Alastor Moody uses the charm on Harry| in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. Also mentioned in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince in the Ministry of Magic leaflet provided to all magical people as a precaution against Voldemort's reign of terror. Xenophilius Lovegood mentions, in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, that invisibility cloaks are sometimes created by casting a disillusionment charm on a regular cloak, but that such charms will eventually fade and become visible.

Notes: When Disillusioned, the target feels something cold and wet trickling down their back. Likewise, when the charm is lifted, the target feels something hot trickling down their back.

[edit] (Dumbledore's Spell)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Likely an extremely powerful charm, seeing as the force of it ruffled Harry's hair as it passed, and Voldemort was forced to protect himself with a shield charm.

Seen/Mentioned: Used by Dumbledore in his duel with Voldemort in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.

Notes: Forced Voldemort to have to conjure a shield to protect himself. When asked about it, J.K Rowling was not inclined to comment.

[edit] (Dumbledore's Jinx)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: A powerful jinx capable of incapacitating several people at once. Creates a sound much like a gunshot, coupled with trembling of the floor and a streak of silver light. Also, shown victims believed that no time has passed while they were incapacitated.

Seen/Mentioned: In Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Dumbledore uses this jinx to knock out Dawlish|, Kingsley Shacklebolt, Cornelius Fudge, and Dolores Umbridge while resisting arrest in his office. It is again mentioned in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" when Harry delves into Severus Snape's memories. Snape is knocked to the ground when a powerful silver streak with the appearance of lightning passes him by.

[edit] Duro

Pronunciation: DOO-roh (IPA: /ˈdu.ɹəʊ/)

Description: This spell is said to turn its target to stone.

Seen/Mentioned: Used by Hermione| in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows while escaping from Death Eaters in Hogwarts.

Etymology: Latin duro, "I make hard", "I stiffen".

[edit] E

[edit] Engorgio (Engorgement Charm)

Pronunciation: en-GOR-jee-oh (IPA: /ɪn.'gɔ˞.dʒi.əʊ/)

Description: Causes objects to swell in size.

Seen/Mentioned: Seen in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire when Barty Crouch, impersonating Professor Moody|, casts it on a spider to enhance a demonstration of the effects of the Cruciatus Curse|. Hagrid| is also suspected of having performed the charm on his pumpkins once, and Ron Weasley suggested it might be the cause of Hagrid's abnormal size before learning that he is half-giant. Also used on a spider by Harry| in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, to test his stolen wand, Ron| assumes it is to annoy him.

Etymology: The English word engorged means "distended" or "swollen". Almost certainly the same as the "Growth Charm" which was briefly mentioned in one of the books.

[edit] Episkey

Pronunciation: eh-PIS-key (IPA: /ɛpɪ'ski/)

Description: Used to heal relatively minor injuries.

Seen/Mentioned: Used in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire after the first task of the Triwizard Tournament. In Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, Nymphadora Tonks uses this spell to fix Harry's broken nose; also used by Harry in the same book to fix Demelza Robins' mouth.

Etymology: The word comes from the Greek "episkeui" ("επισκευή"), which means "repair".

Notes: J. K. Rowling writes in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince that Harry's knowledge tells him this spell could belong to a family (or variety) of Healing Spells, in the same way a species of plants belongs to a larger genus.

[edit] Erecto

Pronunciation: ee-RECK-toh or eh-RECK-toh (IPA: /ɪ.ˈɹɛk.təʊ/ or /ə.ˈɹɛk.təʊ/)

Description: Used to erect a tent or other structure.

Seen/Mentioned: Used by Hermione| and Harry| to construct shelter for themselves and Ron| in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

Etymology: Erectum is past participle of Erigere, Latin for "to erect".

[edit] Evanesco (Vanishing Spell)

Pronunciation: ev-an-ES-koh (IPA: (IPA: /ɛ.vn̩.'ɛs.kəʊ/)

Description: Makes something vanish.

Seen/Mentioned: Used in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by Professor Snape| to make Harry's potions disappear from his cauldron. In addition, when Fred and George were showing off their puking pastilles, Lee Jordan cleared the bucket of vomit with the Evanesco spell.

Eytomology: Comes from "evanescence", something that is fleeting or disappears, and the Latin evanesco, "disappear".

Notes: According to Professor McGonagall, in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Vanished objects and organisms go "into non-being, which is to say, everything." This was McGonagall's response to the question, "Where do vanished objects go?" from the door knocker at Ravenclaw Tower|.

[edit] Expecto Patronum (Patronus Charm)

Pronunciation: ecks-PEK-toh pah-TRO-num (IPA: /ɛks.'pɛk.təʊ pə.'trəʊ.nʌm/)

Description: The Patronus Charm is a defensive spell used to conjure an incarnation of the Witch's or Wizard's innermost positive emotions to act as a protector. It can also be used to send messages.

Seen/Mentioned: First seen in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, when Remus Lupin made the Dementor on the train disappear, though seen without the incantation noticed. Lupin later teaches Harry Potter| to use the charm as a defence against Dementors. According to Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them it is the only charm that has any effects on the Lethifold, or Living Shroud.

Etymology: See Patronus Charm article|.

Notes: All Patronuses take the form something important to the caster, usually some animal special to them. For instance, Harry Potter's Patronus is a stag; Harry's father, James Potter, was an Animagus whose animal form was a stag. The form of one's Patronus can change when the caster has undergone a period of heightened emotion, such as severe stress or love, as shown in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince when Nymphadora Tonks' Patronus changed to a werewolf.

[edit] Expelliarmus (Disarming Spell)

Pronunciation: ex-pel-ee-AR-mus (IPA: /ɛks.ˌpɛ.li.'a˞.mɪs/)

Description: This spell is used to disarm another wizard, typically by causing the victim's wand to fly out of reach. It can also throw the target backwards when enough power is put into it. As demonstrated in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, simultaneous use of this spell by multiple witches or wizards on a single person can throw the wizard back with much greater force.

Seen/Mentioned: First seen in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, when Professor Snape| disarms Professor Lockhart| in the Dueling Club. It is then used commonly throughout the rest of the series. The most notable uses of it are when Draco Malfoy uses it to disarm Albus Dumbledore, and Harry uses it in the final battle against Voldemort wielding the Elder Wand. It is seen by the Death Eaters as Harry's signature spell.

Etymology: Possibly a combined form of the Latin expello, "expel", and arma, "weapons" or "tools"; thus, "expel the weapon". Expellamus means "let us expel".

Note: Called Harry's "signature move" in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

[edit] Expulso

Pronunciation: ecks-PUL-soh (IPA: /ɛks.ˈpʊl.səʊ/)

Description: A curse which causes that with which it comes into contact to explode violently. Similar to the Blasting Curse|, which also causes its target to explode.

Seen/Mentioned: Used by a Death Eater in an attempt to capture Harry|. In Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, this may have been the spell that caused a segment of wall to fall and kill Fred Weasley.

Etymology: Expulsum is past participle of Expellere, Latin for "to expel".

[edit] F

[edit] (False Memory Charm)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Implants a false memory in the mind of the target.

Seen/Mentioned: Tom Riddle (a.k.a. Lord Voldemort) uses this against Morfin Gaunt and Hokey, Hepzibah Smith's house-elf, in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince to make them confess to murders he himself committed. It is seen at the Quidditch world cup to relieve the Muggles' suspicions. Gilderoy Lockhart used it on many wizards to take credit for their heroic deeds. Hermione Granger further uses it in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows on her parents so that they will believe that they are Wendell and Monica Wilkins, who have no daughter and their life's goal is to move to Australia.

Notes: The real memory that is hidden behind a false memory can be retrieved by skillful Legilimency.

[edit] (Featherweight Charm)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Makes something lightweight.

Seen/Mentioned: Harry contemplates using this in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban to lighten his trunk so that he can carry it by broom to Gringotts.

[edit] Ferula

Pronunciation: feh-ROO-lah (IPA: /fɛ.'ɹu.lə/)

Description: Creates a bandage and a splint.

Seen/Mentioned: Used by Remus Lupin in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban to bind Ron's broken leg.

Etymology: Latin ferula, meaning "walking-stick" or "splint".

[edit] (Fidelius Charm)

Pronunciation: fih-DAY-lee-us (IPA: /fɪ.ˈde.li.ʌs/)

Description: This complex charm enables secret information to be hidden within the soul of the recipient, known as a Secret-Keeper. The information is then irretrievable until and unless the Secret-Keeper chooses to reveal it; not even those who have the Secret revealed to them can reveal it to others. If a Secret-Keeper dies, each individual who knew of the secret in turn becomes Secret-Keeper.

Seen/Mentioned: In Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, it is explained that when Harry was an infant, he and his parents, James| and Lily Potter|, were hidden from Lord Voldemort by this charm. Later, in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, the charm is used to hide the location of the headquarters for the Order of the Phoenix. It is also mentioned in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, in which it was used to protect the location of Shell Cottage| and the Weasleys' Aunt Muriel's house.

Etymology: Latin fidelis, which means "faithful" or "loyal".

Notes: J. K. Rowling previously stated that when a Secret-Keeper dies, the Secret they held can never be revealed to anyone else; the people who were told before the Secret-Keeper's death will still know the secret, but after the death of the Secret-Keeper no one new can be brought into the circle of knowledge (meaning that eventually all knowledge of the secret will be lost and it will become undiscoverable.^[4] However, in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, it is clearly explained that upon the Keeper's death (specifically, Dumbledore as Keeper of Number 12), all those who have been told the secret become Secret-Keepers in turn, and can pass the secret on to others. Hermione| accidentally "reveals" Grimmauld Place to the Death Eater Yaxley by allowing him to Apparate| with her to its front doorstep. Although Yaxley would not be able to reveal the secret to other Death Eaters, he could have brought them inside by the same process. What those other Death Eaters would see and experience upon entering the house in this fashion is not fully explained. It is also not known what would happen if a secret was not passed on to anybody before the death of the Secret Keeper, although the secret information would remain as it was the moment of the Secret Keeper's death.

Notes (2): The Fidelius Charm seems to have no effect with regard to animals, as Hedwig| found Ron| and Hermione| in the headquarters of the Order of the Phoenix in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (unless she was told by Dumbledore somehow). Another oddity is that the Potter's house in Godric's Hollow was apparently visible to all non-Muggles, even though the Secret should have only been known to James, Lily, Harry, Sirius, Peter and Voldemort; it apparently ceased to operate upon the Potters' death.

Notes (3): In Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, it was stated that Hagrid managed to get Harry before all the Muggles could take a look at the scene. This would mean that after either killing the Potters or the destruction of their House by the Avada Kedavra curse, the spell ceased to function. Later, it would seem that the house was made to be anti-Muggle by wizards in order to pay tribute to the Potters.

Notes (4): In Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Voldemort's name had been cursed in such a way as to act as a homing beacon, pointing to whomever had spoken the name, and as a jinx to disarm all enchantments, yet it was unable to deactivate the Fidelius charms defenses at 12 Grimauld Place. Death Eaters continued to appear, staking out the location after Voldemort's name had been spoken within, although it also seemed as if the Death Eaters were there simply in case Harry| showed up, since they only stationed two Death Eaters| in a rotation as if they were on a stake out,not knowing for certain that Harry, Hermione|, and Ron| were inside.

[edit] (Fiendfyre)

Pronunciation: Feend-fire (IPA: /find faɪɚ/

Description: Fiendfyre is seemingly unstoppable cursed fire whose flames take the shape of fantastic creatures that appear to stalk those caught in its path. It can also destroy Horcruxes.

Seen/Mentioned: Used in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows when Crabbe, Goyle, and Draco Malfoy corner Harry| in the Room of Hidden Things (one form of the Room of Requirement|) when he is searching for Rowena Ravenclaw's lost diadem. Crabbe casts Fiendfyre, which become flaming beasts that pursue Harry, Ron, and Hermione and gleefully devour every object within the Room, including Crabbe and the Horcrux within the diadem.

Etymology: A "fiend" is a cruel or wicked person, or a demon; "fyre" is a reference to fire.

Notes: The caster must be able to control Fiendfyre, or it can spread indefinitely. The fire cannot be extinguished by water or fire-stopping charms, and the spell's flames may have some independent consciousness. Hermione Granger notes that she was aware that Fiendfyre was extremely destructive and that it can potentially destroy a Horcrux. However, she never considered using it because it was too dangerous. It is likely that Fiendfyre is too difficult or impossible for most to control.

[edit] Finite (Incantatem) (Counter-Spell)

Pronunciation: fi-NEE-tay (in-can-TAH-tem) (IPA: /fɪ.'ni.teɪ (ɪn.kn̩.'tæ.dm)̩/)

Description: Negates spells or the effects of spells.

Seen/Mentioned: Professor Snape| uses it in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets to restore order in the Dueling Club when Harry and Draco are duelling. Remus Lupin uses the short form "Finite" in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. Harry used Finite to counter Crabbe's Descendo attack on Ron in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

Etymology: Latin finire, "to finish": "finite" is the plural imperative form, so it translates to the command, "[all of you] end". Incantatem is apparently intended to recall "incantation"; the Latin verb form incantatum would mean "someone or something enspelled".

[edit] (Flagrante Curse)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Causes any object affected to burn human skin when touched.

Seen/Mentioned: Seen in the Lestranges' vault in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, as a criminal deterrent.

Etymology: From the Latin flagro, meaning "to blaze", "to flame" or "to burn". Also, in flagrante delicto means "in the very act of crime".

[edit] Flagrate

Pronunciation: fluh-GRAYT, FLAH-grayt, fluh-GRAH-tay (IPA: /flə.ˈɡɹæ.te/

Description: With this spell, the caster's wand can leave fiery marks.

Seen/Mentioned: First appearance, by Tom Marvolo Riddle in "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" when he uses the spell non-verbally to write his name in midair followed by a second spell to rearrange the letters. Second appearance, by Hermione| in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. She uses the spell to identify doors of the Department of Mysteries| which members of Dumbledore's Army had already opened, by marking an "X" on them.

Etymology: The incantation comes from the Latin noun flagrate, meaning "a burn".

[edit] (Flame-Freezing Charm)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Causes fire to become harmless to those caught in it, creating only a gentle, tickling sensation instead of burns.

Seen/Mentioned: Mentioned in the first chapter of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban as used by witches and wizards during medieval burnings. Apparently, one witch (Wendelin the Weird) was so fond of the tickling sensation, she allowed herself to be caught and subsequently burned no fewer than 47 times.

Notes: This may have been the spell used by Albus Dumbledore in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince to seemingly set fire to Tom Riddle's old wardrobe whilst causing no physical damage. It may also be the protection in the Floo network, as well as how people communicate through fireplaces.

[edit] (Flying Charm)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Apparently the spell cast on broomsticks|, and magic carpets| to make them fly.

Seen/Mentioned: Draco Malfoy mentioned this spell when tauntingly asking Ron Weasley why would anyone cast a Flying Charm on Ron's broomstick, which he deems a "moldy old log", in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix during Ron's first Quidditch practice. It is also mentioned in Quidditch Through the Ages.

Notes: See Quidditch.

[edit] Furnunculus

Pronunciation: fer-NUN-kyoo-lus

Description: Causes the target to become covered in boils.

Seen/Mentioned: Used by Harry Potter in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire on Draco Malfoy, but was deflected onto Goyle instead.

Etymology: Latin furnus, meaning "oven", or Latin furunculus, meaning "petty thief", or English furuncle, an alternative word to "boil".

[edit] G

[edit] Geminio

Pronunciation: jeh-MIH-nee-oh or geh-MIH-nee-oh (hard "g") (IPA: /dʒə.ˈmɪ.ni.əʊ/ or /ɡə.ˈmɪ.ni.əʊ/)

Description: Creates a duplicate of any object cast upon.

Seen/Mentioned: Used by Hermione in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows to copy Salazar Slytherin's locket in order to hide their tracks from Dolores Umbridge. Assumed that it was used on Gryffindor's sword by Snape. Also used by Gringotts security to protect treasure in the Lestranges' and perhaps other high-security vaults.

Etymology: Gemini is Latin for "twins".

[edit] (Gemino Curse)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Whenever an object affected by this curse is touched, it duplicates itself into many useless copies to hide the original.

Seen/Mentioned: Seen in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows when Harry|, Ron|, Hermione|, and Griphook the goblin break into the Lestrange vault in Gringotts. Assumed used on the Sword of Gryffindor by Severus Snape.

Etymology: Possible conflation of the Latin 'Gemini' and the English 'Domino', suggested by the spell's effect of duplicating items ad infinitum.

Notes: Possible deviation in the quality of copies, as Griphook the goblin could tell which sword of Gryffindor was the original and which was the copy.

[edit] Glisseo

Pronunciaton: GLISS-see-oh or gliss-SAY-oh (IPA: /ˈɡlɪs.si.əʊ/ or /ɡlɪs.ˈse.əʊ/)

Description: Causes the steps on a stairway to flatten and form a ramp, slide, or chute.

Seen/Mentioned: Used by Hermione| to escape from pursuing Death Eaters in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. It is possible that the spell on the stairs to the girl's dormitories, which activates when boys try to climb the stairs, is the same (Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix).

Etymology: Possibly derived from the French verb glisser, meaning "to slide".

[edit] (Gripping Charm)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Used to help someone grip something with more effectiveness. This charm is placed upon Quaffles to help Chasers carry the Quaffle whilst simultaneously holding their brooms.

Seen/Mentioned: Mentioned in Quidditch Through the Ages.

Notes: See Quidditch.

[edit] H

[edit] (Hair-Thickening Charm)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Thickens one's hair.

Seen/Mentioned: In Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Severus Snape asserts that Alicia Spinnet used it on her eyebrows even though she was obviously hexed by someone on the Slytherin Quidditch team.

[edit] (Healing Spell)

Pronunciation: Unknown

Description: Spell used to heal deep gashes. Its incantation is described as being song-like.

Seen/mentioned: In