Hex

A hex is one of the seven known spell types. They are affiliated with Dark Magic, darker than a jinx but not as dark as a curse, and generally causes moderate suffering to the victim. However, they can be used in a defensive capacity. For instance, in 1996, Ginny Weasley gained a reputation for being an accomplished caster of the Bat-Bogey Hex after using it to free herself from Dolores Umbridge's Inquisitorial Squad.

List of Known Hexes

 * Anteoculatia
 * Bat-Bogey Hex
 * Bedazzling Hex
 * Densaugeo
 * Engorgio Skullus
 * Entomorphis
 * Horn-growing hex
 * Horn tongue hex
 * Hurling Hex
 * Instant scalping hex
 * Knee-Reversal Hex
 * Mutatio Skullus
 * Redactum Skullus
 * Sardine Hex
 * Steleus
 * Stinging Hex
 * Tickling Hex
 * Toenail-growing hex
 * Twitchy Ears Hex

Etymology
The word "hex" may derive from Pensylvania German hexe meaning "to practice witchcraft" or German hexen "to hex", a meaning that the word still retains today when used as a verb. Its usage as a noun in contemporary English may refer to "a magic spell" or "a charm" and usually carries an connotation of ill will (though it used to refer to a an evil witch&mdash;such as a Hag&mdash;as well).

Behind the scenes

 * Although there is no known class that teaches, it is probable that&mdash;if they are taught&mdash;they are included in the Defence Against the Dark Arts syllabus. It is also highly likely that students learn them from each other.
 * A Hex-Breaker can counter the effects of these types of spells. Probably, there are also counter-hexes.