temptation

noun

temp·​ta·​tion tem(p)-ˈtā-shən 

1

: the act of tempting or the state of being tempted especially to evil : enticement

2

: something tempting : a cause or occasion of enticement

Synonyms of temptation

• seduction
• lure

Examples of temptation in a Sentence

Money is always a temptation.

The dessert menu has a lot of delicious temptations.

the temptations of the city

Recent Examples on the Web

That includes Wolves, whose form has picked up considerably under Rob Edwards — only one win but a series of draws, typified by that dramatic fightback at home to Arsenal on Wednesday — so there’s a temptation to go with form here and back Wolves to get a result. —Oliver Kay, New York Times, 20 Feb. 2026

Their chemistry is instant and combustible, blurring the line between rivalry and desire as every argument crackles with temptation. —Joe Otterson, Variety, 19 Feb. 2026

In spring, Boiseans on the West Bench can expect the same sweet-and-savory temptation. —Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 19 Feb. 2026

Decide what to do with each item promptly to avoid any temptation to keep holding onto it. —Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English temptacioun "testing, enticement to sin," borrowed from Anglo-French tentacion, borrowed from Late Latin temptātiōn-, temptātiō "enticement to sin," going back to Latin, "attempt, attack," from temptāre "to feel, test, attempt, make an assault on, attack" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at tempt

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for temptation

• ablation
• bination
• carnation
• cassation
• castration
• causation
• centration
• cessation
• cetacean
• chelation
• citation
• collation

Kids Definition

temptation

noun

temp·​ta·​tion tem(p)-ˈtā-shən 

1

: the act of tempting : the state of being tempted especially to evil

2

: something tempting