völu

Võlu is an Estonian noun meaning magic, enchantment, or a spell. It can refer to supernatural power believed to influence people, animals, or the natural world, as well as to a concrete object believed to bring luck or protection—a charm or amulet—in traditional folk belief. The term also appears in expressions describing captivating experiences or effects and can function as a general label for magical practices in myth and storytelling.

In Estonian folklore and literature, võlu is used to describe spells, incantations, or magical feats performed by characters such as witches, shamans, or heroes. It is often linked with folk rituals, healing rites, and protective charms intended to ward off harm or misfortune. Although modern Estonia is secular and scientific, references to võlu persist in folklore, popular culture, and language as a part of cultural heritage.

Grammatically, võlu is a native Estonian noun; the related adjective võluv denotes charm or attractiveness, and the verb võluma means to enchant or cast a spell. In everyday speech, võlu can carry a metaphorical sense of appeal or allure, as in phrases describing someone or something as charming. The word remains primarily Estonian, though cognate terms exist in related Finnic languages.