attract

Definition of attractnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word attract different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of attract are allure, captivate, charm, enchant, and fascinate. While all these words mean "to draw another by exerting a powerful influence," attract applies to any degree or kind of ability to exert influence over another.

students attracted by the school's locale

When is it sensible to use allure instead of attract?

While the synonyms allure and attract are close in meaning, allure implies an enticing by what is fair, pleasing, or seductive.

an alluring smile

How are the words charm and captivate related as synonyms of attract?

Charm implies the power of casting a spell over the person or thing affected and so compelling a response, but it may, like captivate, suggest no more than evoking delight or admiration.

charmed by their hospitality
her performances captivated audiences

Where would enchant be a reasonable alternative to attract?

The synonyms enchant and attract are sometimes interchangeable, but enchant is perhaps the strongest of these terms in stressing the appeal of the agent and the degree of delight evoked in the subject.

hopelessly enchanted by her beauty

When might fascinate be a better fit than attract?

Although the words fascinate and attract have much in common, fascinate suggests a magical influence and tends to stress the ineffectiveness of attempts to resist.

a story that continues to fascinate children

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of attract The fats and aromatic compounds found in soap are believed to attract these animals. Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 26 Apr. 2026 The no-stress and fun approach has attracted hundreds of people, mostly women of all ages. ABC News, 26 Apr. 2026 The conference center is expected to accommodate up to 500 people — a size that has the potential to attract national meetings and bring more visitors to the city of Hartford, Flaks said. Kenneth R. Gosselin, Hartford Courant, 26 Apr. 2026 Speakers highlighted Portugal’s mix of national funds and rebates, Spain’s support across every stage of filmmaking – with a focus on emerging female directors—and Mexico’s new incentives program, offering up to a 30% tax credit to boost local production and attract global investment. Anna Marie De La Fuente, Variety, 26 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for attract
Recent Examples of Synonyms for attract
Verb
  • His frame and traits are enticing.
    Alec Lewis, New York Times, 27 Apr. 2026
  • Office renovations and conversions in Charlotte Post-COVID, office towers have to either entice people to come back to the cubicle or change uses.
    Caitlin McGlade, Charlotte Observer, 27 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • The fact that both CBS News and CNN will be under the new corporate roof, however, makes the involvement of Saudi Arabia and other Persian Gulf interests a sensitive point.
    Dade Hayes, Deadline, 27 Apr. 2026
  • There’s something easy about sweet that doesn’t interest me.
    Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 16 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Attract.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/attract. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

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