tempting

adjective

tempt·​ing ˈtem(p)-tiŋ How to pronounce tempting (audio)
Synonyms of temptingnext
: having an appeal : enticing
a tempting offer
temptingly adverb

Examples of tempting in a Sentence

The desserts look very tempting. It is tempting to think of him as the next American president.
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.
This natural chemical reaction triggers browning, richer flavor, and tempting aromas. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Jan. 2026 Things To Leave Behind It may be tempting to bring fine jewelry for a formal dinner or those dazzling red heels that go with only one of your dresses, but some things should be left at home to help maximize your space and avoid losing a beloved item. Jill Schildhouse, Southern Living, 30 Jan. 2026 Machado’s strategy could appear to have been a devil’s bargain—tempting Trump with the prospect of petrodollars in exchange for ousting Maduro, her nemesis. The Atlantic, 29 Jan. 2026 But as the streamer grew, the potential to capitalize on the rabid fandom around the NFL was too tempting. Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 28 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for tempting

Word History

Etymology

from present participle of tempt

First Known Use

1588, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tempting was in 1588

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Tempting.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tempting. Accessed 6 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

tempting

adjective
tempt·​ing ˈtem(p)-tiŋ How to pronounce tempting (audio)
: having a strong attraction
the food all looked tempting
temptingly adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on tempting

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