attract

Definition of attractnext

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 Both organizations touted the games’ ability to attract visitors beyond Maryland. Edward Lee, Baltimore Sun, 6 Aug. 2026 The 43-acre Cunningham Falls State Park features Maryland's highest cascading waterfall and attracts more than 575,000 visitors a year, according to state officials. Bill Hutchinson, ABC News, 6 Aug. 2026 Plus, the moving water is sure to attract fascinating birds and other wildlife. Savanna Bous, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Aug. 2026 Democratic primaries attracted more voters in 11 House districts and two Senate districts currently held by Republicans. Jack Harvel, Kansas City Star, 6 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for attract
Recent Examples of Synonyms for attract
Verb
  • There could be enough of the Heat’s mid-level exception available to entice Klay Thompson into taking a Mavericks buyout.
    Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 6 Aug. 2026
  • The main sticking point is Real Madrid’s failure to offer something that entices both City and the player, whose contract expires at the Etihad on June 30, 2027.
    Tom Sanderson, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • The goal for this inaugural season is to keep expenses (including travel) down, interest up, and profits obtainable.
    Dan Freedman, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2026
  • The cliche of getting involved in activities that interest you where other people might go is actually a good idea.
    Harriette Cole, Mercury News, 25 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Attract.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/attract. Accessed 8 Aug. 2026.

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