Fredrich Anton Mesmer (1734–1815), Austrian physician after whom mesmerism was named. Mesmerism is the doctrine or system according to which a hypnoticstate, usually accompanied by insensibility to pain and muscular rigidity, can be induced by a n influence (at first known as "animal magnetism") exercised by a n operator over the will and nervous system of the patient. —SHSBC Binder 2 Approved Glossary, —SHSBC Binder 31 Approved Glossary