Synonyms of seduce

seduce

verb

si-ˈdüs 

as in to tempt

to lead away from a usual or proper course by offering some pleasure or advantage

I wasn't going to buy the car, but was seduced by the low-interest payment plan

Synonyms & Similar Words

• tempt
• lure
• persuade
• entice
• betray
• beguile
• bait
• allure
• solicit
• lead on
• fascinate
• trap
• decoy
• enchant
• ensnare
• entrap
• draw in
• inveigle
• rope (in)
• captivate
• charm
• snow
• bewitch
• mesh
• snare
• catch
• enmesh
• magnetize
• tangle
• wile

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• warn
• alert
• ward (off)
• caution
• drive (away or off)
• forewarn
• turn away
• repulse

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb seduce differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of seduce are decoy, entice, inveigle, lure, and tempt. While all these words mean "to lead astray from one's true course," seduce implies a leading astray by persuasion or false promises.

seduced by assurances of assistance

In what contexts can decoy take the place of seduce?

While in some cases nearly identical to seduce, decoy implies a luring into entrapment by artifice.

attempting to decoy the enemy into an ambush

When would entice be a good substitute for seduce?

The synonyms entice and seduce are sometimes interchangeable, but entice suggests drawing by artful or adroit means.

advertising designed to entice new customers

When could inveigle be used to replace seduce?

While the synonyms inveigle and seduce are close in meaning, inveigle implies enticing by cajoling or flattering.

fund-raisers inveigling wealthy alumni

When is it sensible to use lure instead of seduce?

The words lure and seduce are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, lure implies a drawing into danger, evil, or difficulty through attracting and deceiving.

lured naive investors with get-rich-quick schemes

Where would tempt be a reasonable alternative to seduce?

In some situations, the words tempt and seduce are roughly equivalent. However, tempt implies the presenting of an attraction so strong that it overcomes the restraints of conscience or better judgment.

tempted by the offer of money

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of seduce

Sal knows how to properly spark a Zippo, seduce women, shuck oysters, throw a punch, and other Badass Masshole 101 lessons. — David Fear, Rolling Stone, 5 Aug. 2026

This is not the beautiful creature who seduces Odysseus in the poem. — ArsTechnica, 1 Aug. 2026

In the video, then-23-year-old Gugino plays a young woman who, after her rock star boyfriend cheats on her with her best friend, seduces an artist painting her portrait. — Scott Huver, PEOPLE, 12 July 2026

With its winning trifecta of sandy beaches, boutique hotels, and unpretentious tavernas, the Greek island of Milos seduces couples, water lovers, and gastronomes alike. — Helen Iatrou, Travel + Leisure, 11 July 2026