magic word

== English == === Pronunciation === (UK) IPA(key): /ˌmædʒɪk ˈwɜːd/ (US) IPA(key): /ˌmædʒɪk ˈwɝd/ === Noun === magic word (plural magic words) Any word that has a magical effect when uttered. (in teaching or training polite words to children) One of the words please, thank you, or hello. (by extension) Any word that is considered very significant in a certain situation or context. (computing) A string of text having some special function or purpose. Coordinate term: magic number ==== Synonyms ==== ==== Translations ==== === References === “magic word, n.”, in OED Online ⁠, Oxford: Oxford University Press, launched 2000.