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

And then there's trash in unsecured bins, by far the biggest attractant behind this year's surge in bear activity, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife data. — ABC News, 8 Sep. 2026

And then there’s trash in unsecured bins, by far the biggest attractant behind this year’s surge in bear activity, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife data. — Brittany Peterson, Fortune, 8 Sep. 2026

In order to help prevent potential conflicts, the agency recommends safely storing trash, animal feed and other attractants as well as locking up trash receptacles and food scraps to eliminate odors that may attract wildlife. — Kimberlee Speakman, PEOPLE, 19 Aug. 2026

The law changes the standard for violations from intentionally feeding bears to knowingly leaving food, trash or other attractants accessible to them. — Jasmine Arenas, CBS News, 17 Aug. 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)