attractant

noun

at·​trac·​tant ə-ˈtrak-tənt 

: 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

Empty feeders left hanging serve as a visual attractant and have residual seed odor that will still attract bears to houses. — Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 11 Nov. 2026

Store food in plastic containers off the floor, especially grains, pasta, and other common attractants. — Kate Van Pelt, The Spruce, 10 Nov. 2026

Other possible attractants include garbage, compost, and pet food. — Rachel Silva, Martha Stewart, 9 Nov. 2026

Wildlife officials recommend bringing all food and trash completely inside the home and not leaving attractants in garages or outside. — Sarah Horbacewicz, CBS News, 29 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

attract + -ant entry 1

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for attractant

• extractant
• reactant
• surfactant

Kids Definition

attractant

noun

at·​trac·​tant ə-ˈtrak-tənt 

: something that attracts

especially : a substance that attracts animals (as insects)