Etymology From Middle English charmynge; equivalent to charm + -ing.
1
Pleasant, charismatic.
"What a charming amusement for young people this is, Mr. Darcy! There is nothing like dancing after all. I consider it as one of the first refinements of polished society."1813, Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice, Chapter 6:
In the abstract, Stuhlbarg’s twinkly-eyed sidekick suggests Joe Pesci in Lethal Weapon 2 by way of late-period Robin Williams with an alien twist, but Stuhlbarg makes a character that easily could have come across as precious into a surprisingly palatable, even charming man.2012 May 24, Nathan Rabin, “Film: Reviews: Men In Black 3”, in The Onion AV Club:
2
Delightful in a playful way which avoids responsibility or seriousness, as if attracting through a magical charm.
Etymology From Middle English charmynge; equivalent to charm + -ing.
1
The casting of a magical charm.
They denied me often flour, barm and milk, / Goose-grease and tar, when I ne'er hurt their charmings, / Their brewlocks, nor their batches, nor forespoke / Any of their breedings.1616, Thomas Middleton, The Witch:
Etymology From Middle English charmynge; equivalent to charm + -ing.
1
British, Ironic Used in response to behaviour or language considered offensive or uncouth.
The other murderer is sadistically hacked to pieces, while the proceedings are being videoed – and the DVD is sent to Nick's home so that his daughter can see it. Oh, charming.2009 November 26, Peter Bradshaw, “Review: Law Abiding Citizen”, in The Guardian: