attraction

Definition of attractionnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun attraction differ from other similar words?

The words affinity and sympathy are common synonyms of attraction. While all three words mean "the relationship existing between things or persons that are naturally or involuntarily drawn together," attraction implies the possession by one thing of a quality that pulls another to it.

felt an attraction to danger

When is affinity a more appropriate choice than attraction?

While the synonyms affinity and attraction are close in meaning, affinity implies a susceptibility or predisposition on the part of the one drawn.

an affinity for mathematics

When might sympathy be a better fit than attraction?

The meanings of sympathy and attraction largely overlap; however, sympathy implies a reciprocal or natural relation between two things that are both susceptible to the same influence.

two minds in sympathy

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 attraction The truth is unregulated sports betting is the main attraction on platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket. Mick Mulvaney, Fortune, 19 Mar. 2026 Outdoor activities such as beach trips, park visits or exploring city attractions should be easy to schedule around any brief wet periods. Brandi D. Addison, USA Today, 18 Mar. 2026 The attraction was closed for two weeks after a man died after riding it in September. Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 18 Mar. 2026 But executives must strike a balance by keeping attractions true to their nostalgic core. Meg James, Los Angeles Times, 18 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for attraction
Recent Examples of Synonyms for attraction
magnet
Noun
  • Bluebeard With its long-lasting summer flowers, bluebeard (Caryopteris incana) is a pollinator magnet.
    Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Mar. 2026
  • Yet launching a conversation around mental health with an audience magnet as powerful as Radcliffe is on balance an excellent thing.
    Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 13 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Attraction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/attraction. Accessed 23 Mar. 2026.

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