attracts; attracted; attracting
1
a
: to cause (someone) to choose to do or be involved in something
The company has a difficult time attracting good employees because of its poor pay and benefits.
The chance to travel around the world attracted me to a career as a flight attendant.
b
: to cause (someone) to like or be interested in something
—usually used as (be) attracted
He is attracted to hockey because of the constant action of the game.
I was attracted by the town's vibrant art community.
2
: to cause (someone or something) to go to or move to or toward a place
The museum attracts visitors from all over the world.
The smell of freshly baked cookies attracted the children (to the kitchen).
The scent will attract certain insects.
Certain insects are attracted by the scent.
3
: to cause sexual or romantic feeling in (someone or something)
Short men attract her.
Her bright blue eyes attracted me.
The bird's colorful feathers are used to attract a mate.
—often used as (be) attractedShe is attracted to short men.
I was attracted by her bright blue eyes.
I felt very attracted to her.
4
: to cause (a particular reaction) : to get or create (attention, notice, interest, etc.)
The trial is attracting a lot of attention.
Her comment attracted criticism.
The bird uses its call to attract the attention of a mate.
5
physics
: to pull (something) to or toward something else
A magnet attracts iron.
Cite this Entry
“Attract.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/attract. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
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