attract

Synonym Chooser

How is the word attract different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of attract are allure, captivate, charm, enchant, and fascinate. While all these words mean "to draw another by exerting a powerful influence," attract applies to any degree or kind of ability to exert influence over another.

students attracted by the school's locale

When is it sensible to use allure instead of attract?

While the synonyms allure and attract are close in meaning, allure implies an enticing by what is fair, pleasing, or seductive.

an alluring smile

How are the words charm and captivate related as synonyms of attract?

Charm implies the power of casting a spell over the person or thing affected and so compelling a response, but it may, like captivate, suggest no more than evoking delight or admiration.

charmed by their hospitality
her performances captivated audiences

Where would enchant be a reasonable alternative to attract?

The synonyms enchant and attract are sometimes interchangeable, but enchant is perhaps the strongest of these terms in stressing the appeal of the agent and the degree of delight evoked in the subject.

hopelessly enchanted by her beauty

When might fascinate be a better fit than attract?

Although the words fascinate and attract have much in common, fascinate suggests a magical influence and tends to stress the ineffectiveness of attempts to resist.

a story that continues to fascinate children

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of attract The fair, taking place this summer at Cal Expo in Sacramento, attracts thousands of visitors with its mix of music, food, rides and exhibitions. Marcus D. Smith, Sacbee.com, 28 Apr. 2025 The event also attracted many local military veterans, including Ramona resident Rudy Weidler, who served on the USS Oriskany — another Navy aircraft carrier — before retiring. David Garrick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Apr. 2025 The Status party attracted a diverse mix of traditional journalists and new media internet personalities. Taylor Lorenz, Rolling Stone, 28 Apr. 2025 The present-day restaurant retains many of the original features and has attracted celebrities and royals, including Prince Charles in 1970. Don't even think about leaving without trying a famous Bermudian fish sandwich, a staple on most menus island-wide. Skye Sherman, Travel + Leisure, 27 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for attract
Recent Examples of Synonyms for attract
Verb
  • Jay Joyner, defensive end The Athletic, 5th round; PFF: 6th round, NFL.com: 5.97 (average backup or special teamer); RAS, 6.88 At 6-4, 262 pounds and with above-average testing, the Connecticut product will entice teams as an edge rusher.
    Andy Greder, Twin Cities, 21 Apr. 2025
  • Related article Marijuana ads are enticing kids to try weed, study says The potency of weed has skyrocketed over the years, which can heighten health risks and is leading to a global rise in marijuana addiction as well as cannabis use disorder, according to a 2022 study.
    Sandee LaMotte, CNN Money, 20 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Employees can engage with opportunities that interest them, trying out new roles through short-term assignments before committing to a full career change.
    Caroline Castrillon, Forbes.com, 17 Apr. 2025
  • What interests me about associating Wilfried Zaha and Lewis Dunk with these fixtures is proof that both clubs continue to grow.
    Andy Naylor, New York Times, 4 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Attract.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/attract. Accessed 4 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on attract

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