Synonyms of entice

entice

verb

in-ˈtīs 

as in to tempt

to lead away from a usual or proper course by offering some pleasure or advantage

every commercial seemed to be for some tempting snack specifically designed to entice me from my diet

Synonyms & Similar Words

• tempt
• lure
• seduce
• persuade
• betray
• beguile
• solicit
• bait
• allure
• lead on
• fascinate
• decoy
• trap
• entrap
• enchant
• ensnare
• rope (in)
• draw in
• inveigle
• captivate
• snow
• catch
• mesh
• snare
• bewitch
• charm
• enmesh
• tangle
• magnetize
• wile

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• warn
• alert
• ward (off)
• caution
• drive (away or off)
• forewarn
• turn away
• repulse

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb entice differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of entice are decoy, inveigle, lure, seduce, and tempt. While all these words mean "to lead astray from one's true course," entice suggests drawing by artful or adroit means.

advertising designed to entice new customers

When is it sensible to use decoy instead of entice?

While the synonyms decoy and entice are close in meaning, decoy implies a luring into entrapment by artifice.

attempting to decoy the enemy into an ambush

Where would inveigle be a reasonable alternative to entice?

The words inveigle and entice can be used in similar contexts, but inveigle implies enticing by cajoling or flattering.

fund-raisers inveigling wealthy alumni

In what contexts can lure take the place of entice?

Although the words lure and entice have much in common, lure implies a drawing into danger, evil, or difficulty through attracting and deceiving.

lured naive investors with get-rich-quick schemes

When could seduce be used to replace entice?

The meanings of seduce and entice largely overlap; however, seduce implies a leading astray by persuasion or false promises.

seduced by assurances of assistance

When would tempt be a good substitute for entice?

In some situations, the words tempt and entice are roughly equivalent. However, tempt implies the presenting of an attraction so strong that it overcomes the restraints of conscience or better judgment.

tempted by the offer of money

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of entice

California’s fertile farm fields once enticed thousands of Dust Bowl refugees fleeing along Route 66 during the Great Depression. —Jonathan Bullington, Chicago Tribune, 26 Apr. 2026

To entice high-profile speakers, primarily the president, architects designed a VIP entrance on the side of the hotel and, one floor below it, a holding room known as the bunker. —ABC News, 26 Apr. 2026

In Middleboro he is charged with one count of witness intimidation and enticing a child under 16. —Flint McColgan, Boston Herald, 25 Apr. 2026

Lettuce that isn't harvested in time or begins to bolt will entice insects to the garden. —Lauren David, Martha Stewart, 24 Apr. 2026