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 industry has long been seen as a quaint attraction that offers tourists a romantic remnant of a bygone New York, while providing hundreds of jobs to drivers, along with many farm and racing horses. Philip Marcelo, Los Angeles Times, 18 June 2026 Good thing, too —- 22 years later, the Midway hosted many of the most famous attractions from the 1893 Chicago World's Fair, including the world's first Ferris wheel. Adam Harrington, CBS News, 18 June 2026 Everything was customized, from the park's layout and attraction lineup right down to its wide range of Chinese food. Caroline Reid, Forbes.com, 14 June 2026 The location will also feature electric vehicle charging stations and an interactive kiosk designed to help visitors discover attractions and destinations throughout Mebane, according to a report from ABC11. Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 12 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for attraction
Recent Examples of Synonyms for attraction
magnet
Noun
  • Liquids, food residue, and rotting produce can be a magnet for fruit flies.
    Meghan Overdeep, Southern Living, 16 June 2026
  • South Florida has become a magnet for some of the biggest names in soccer, and now Brazilian legend Roberto Carlos is the latest superstar to grab a piece of the action—two pieces, actually.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 15 June 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Attraction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/attraction. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on attraction

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster