attractant

noun

at·​trac·​tant ə-ˈtrak-tənt How to pronounce attractant (audio)
: a substance (such as a pheromone) that attracts specific animals (such as insects or individuals of the opposite sex)

Examples of attractant in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, most conflicts between humans and bears involve human food, garbage, pet food, bird seed and other attractants. Christa Swanson, CBS News, 20 Apr. 2026 The berries are favorites of turkeys, bears, foxes, and possums in the fall, while the flowers are attractive and a huge attractant for pollinators. Campbell Vaughn, USA Today, 3 Apr. 2026 Sugary residue and meat smells are major wasp attractants. Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 3 Apr. 2026 Clean Outdoor Food Areas After Every Use Sugary residue and meat smells are major wasp attractants. Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for attractant

Word History

Etymology

attract + -ant entry 1

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of attractant was in 1889

Cite this Entry

“Attractant.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/attractant. Accessed 26 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

attractant

noun
at·​trac·​tant ə-ˈtrak-tənt How to pronounce attractant (audio)
: something that attracts
especially : a substance that attracts animals (as insects)

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