attraction

Definition of attractionnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun attraction differ from other similar words?

The words affinity and sympathy are common synonyms of attraction. While all three words mean "the relationship existing between things or persons that are naturally or involuntarily drawn together," attraction implies the possession by one thing of a quality that pulls another to it.

felt an attraction to danger

When is affinity a more appropriate choice than attraction?

While the synonyms affinity and attraction are close in meaning, affinity implies a susceptibility or predisposition on the part of the one drawn.

an affinity for mathematics

When might sympathy be a better fit than attraction?

The meanings of sympathy and attraction largely overlap; however, sympathy implies a reciprocal or natural relation between two things that are both susceptible to the same influence.

two minds in sympathy

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 attraction Carnival rides, midway attractions and agricultural demonstrations were incorporated into the festival. Mars Salazar, Austin American Statesman, 21 Jan. 2026 Knott’s Berry Farm will close nine attractions for seasonal refurbishments following the busy Christmas holiday season as the Buena Park theme park resort shifts into one of the rare slow periods on the calendar before the start of the 2026 Peanuts celebration. Brady MacDonald, Oc Register, 21 Jan. 2026 Outdoor Things to Do in Miami in January January is the ideal time to get out and experience some of Miami’s natural attractions. Greater Miami Convention, Miami Herald, 21 Jan. 2026 Tax money from sales at the attraction and within a surrounding district are then used to pay back the bond amount over several decades. Sofi Zeman january 21, Kansas City Star, 21 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for attraction
Recent Examples of Synonyms for attraction
magnet
Noun
  • The Institute of Electrical Engineering led the design, manufacturing, and system integration of the superconducting magnet itself.
    Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 28 Jan. 2026
  • Such deals are part of the government’s goal to pivot away from China, which dominates global rare-earth refining and magnet production.
    Danielle Chemtob, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Attraction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/attraction. Accessed 28 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on attraction

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