| magic word n. The word "please," used as a reminder or prompt to say "please": Say the magic word, and I'll give you a cookie. |
| Main Entry: | magic word1 |
| Part of Speech: | n |
| Definition: | a word expected to produce a magical effect or having special significance; the words of a spell |
| Etymology: | from a gag on Groucho Marx's "You Bet Your Life Show" |
| Main Entry: | magic word2 |
| Part of Speech: | n |
| Definition: | permission; that which permits an event |
| Etymology: | from a gag on Groucho Marx's "You Bet Your Life Show" |
| Usage: | in the phrase '(say) the magic word' |