magnet

1 of 2

noun

mag·​net ˈmag-nət 

1

a

: lodestone

b

: a body having the property of attracting iron and producing a magnetic field external to itself

specifically : a mass of iron, steel, or alloy that has this property artificially imparted

2

: something that attracts

a box-office magnet

magnet-

2 of 2

combining form

variants or magneto-

1

: magnetic force

magnetometer

2

: magnetism : magnetic

magnetoelectric

magneton

3

: magnetoelectric

magnetoresistance

4

: magnetosphere

magnetopause

Synonyms of magnet

Noun

• attraction

Examples of magnet in a Sentence

Noun

the giant theme park is a magnet for tourists to the area

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Kramer said third graders might start learning about forces of nature like magnets. —Steve Sadin, Chicago Tribune, 10 Mar. 2026

By circulating the first proton beams inside the storage ring, which is equipped with unique magnets, the scientists can now investigate new approaches to control and stabilize high-intensity beams. —Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 10 Mar. 2026

Even blue salvia becomes a magnet once the hummingbirds discover the nectar. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 10 Mar. 2026

Bonsai’s lone boulder and tiny trees are a photography magnet, while Secret Cove’s clear shallows make for the perfect break after a morning of exploring. —Ted Alvarez, Outside, 9 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Middle English magnete, from Anglo-French, from Latin magnet-, magnes, from Greek magnēs (lithos), literally, stone of Magnesia, ancient city in Asia Minor

Combining form

Latin magnet-, magnes

First Known Use

Noun

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing magnet

• field magnet
• magnet-fish
• magnet fishing
• magnet school
• permanent magnet
• refrigerator magnet

Rhymes for magnet

• magnate
• electromagnet
• ferromagnet

Kids Definition

magnet

noun

mag·​net ˈmag-nət 

1

: a piece of some material (as the mineral iron oxide) that is able to attract iron

especially : a mass of iron or steel so treated that it has this property

2

: something that attracts

the magnet of fame

Medical Definition

magnet

noun

mag·​net ˈmag-nət 

: a body having the property of attracting iron and producing a magnetic field external to itself

specifically : a mass of iron, steel, or alloy that has this property artificially imparted