Mistletoe is a plant that is commonly associated with the holiday season. It is often used as a symbol of love and romance, and is often seen hanging in doorways or above door frames during the Christmas season. Spell mistletoe is a phrase that refers to the act of saying or casting a spell over the mistletoe plant. This spell is said to bring good luck, love and happiness to those who are standing under the mistletoe. The practice of spell mistletoe dates back to ancient times and was often used as a form of protection or as a way to bring good fortune to those who used it. It was believed to have magical properties that could ward off evil spirits and bring blessings to those who were near it.
mistletoe
Recent Examples on the Web Rituals like burning a yule log and hanging a sprig of mistletoe were traditions practiced since Anglo-Saxon and Celtic prehistory. — Emilie Le Beau Lucchesi, Discover Magazine, 20 Dec. 2023 The sheer volume of engagements at this time of year also offers you ample opportunity to have some sort of romantic liaison under the mistletoe. — Olivia Petter, Vogue, 19 Dec. 2023 Its formula is designed to stay put through holiday meals, mistletoe moments, and late-night caroling, ensuring that your lips remain vibrant and eye-catching throughout the season’s activities. — Poppy Morgan, Rolling Stone, 21 Nov. 2023 Starbucks’ classic holiday coffee blend, which is made with its signature flavor notes from Latin American and Indonesian coffee plants, has kept the bright red Christmas packaging, but done away with the mistletoe art in favor of golden bokeh lights. — Kimberlee Speakman, Peoplemag, 24 Oct. 2023 This bundle includes a variety of festive prints, including stripes, candy canes, plaid, mistletoe, and more. — Lauren Taylor, Southern Living, 1 Dec. 2023 The holiday season features plenty of intimate traditions, such as the classic Christmas mistletoe, but why do people kiss after the celebratory New Year’s countdown? — Gia Yetikyel, Vogue, 7 Dec. 2023 Stroll under giant mistletoe on Pearl Street, watch live holiday music at the District Pier and Transit Pier stages, snap a picture with Santa at the Grove, or grab a s’mores kit and roast your own marshmallows at Camp WAFF (which is open through February). — Chris Kelly, Washington Post, 30 Nov. 2023 Find it on Amazon Discover the Universal Appeal of This ELF Lipstick Prepare for holiday festivities with the long-lasting ELF Lipstick, perfect for enduring mistletoe encounters or late-night caroling. — Kathy Barr, Rolling Stone, 15 Nov. 2023 See More
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It was believed to have magical properties that could ward off evil spirits and bring blessings to those who were near it. In ancient times, mistletoe was also associated with fertility and was often included in rituals and ceremonies related to childbirth and marriage. To cast a spell mistletoe, one would typically gather a sprig of mistletoe and hang it in a doorway or above a doorway.
Word History
EtymologyMiddle English mistilto, from Old English misteltān, from mistel mistletoe + tān twig; akin to Old High German & Old Saxon mistil mistletoe and to Old High German zein twig
First Known Usebefore the 12th century, in the meaning defined above
mistletoe
a European plant, Viscum album, having yellowish flowers and white berries, growing parasitically on various trees, used in Christmas decorations.
any of several other related, similar plants, as Phoradendron serotinum, of the U.S.: the state flower of Oklahoma.
The mistletoe would then be blessed or enchanted with words or incantations that were believed to bring good luck and love. In some cases, other herbs or ingredients may have been added to the mistletoe to enhance its magical properties. Today, the practice of spell mistletoe is often seen as a fun and lighthearted tradition during the Christmas season. It is often used as a way to create moments of romance and joy, as those standing under the mistletoe are traditionally expected to share a kiss. While the actual magic or power of spell mistletoe may be debated, it remains a beloved and cherished tradition for many during the holiday season..
Reviews for "The Spellbinding History of Mistletoe: From Druidic Rituals to Modern-Day Spells"
1. Emily - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with "Spell Mistletoe". The plot was predictable and lacked any real depth. The characters felt one-dimensional and their actions were often illogical. The romance between the two main characters felt forced and lacked chemistry. Overall, I found the book to be a bland and forgettable holiday read.
2. John - 1 star - I couldn't even finish "Spell Mistletoe". The writing was overly cheesy and the dialogue felt unnatural. The pacing was extremely slow and it felt like nothing was happening for the majority of the book. The magical elements introduced were poorly explained and didn't make much sense. I found it to be a complete waste of time.
3. Sarah - 2 stars - I had high hopes for "Spell Mistletoe" as a light and enjoyable holiday read, but it fell flat for me. The characters were shallow and lacked depth, making it hard for me to connect with them. The romance felt rushed and lacked development. The writing style was simplistic and at times repetitive. While there were some cute holiday moments, overall, the book failed to capture my interest.