Definition: Hypnosis is a method used by psychiatrists during therapy to recover memories that have been suppressed or use suggestions to change behavior. When a person is undergoing this process, they experience a state of consciousness whereby they momentarily lose the power of action and are highly responsive to direction or suggestion. They are also believed to experience increased concentration and attention when they are in that state.

Etymology: The hypnotic trance state has been used by people for thousands of years. However, hypnosis started to grow towards the end of the 18th century. It was popularized by Franz Mesmer, who was a physician. Hypnotism was widely used in the field of psychology towards the end of the 19th century.

In a Sentence

The witness went through a hypnosis session to help her remember the incident clearly.

People who have difficulty falling asleep are usually advised to try hypnosis or meditation apps.

Research shows that children are usually more vulnerable to hypnosis.