entice

Definition of enticenext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb entice differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of entice are decoy, inveigle, lure, seduce, and tempt. While all these words mean "to lead astray from one's true course," entice suggests drawing by artful or adroit means.

advertising designed to entice new customers

When is it sensible to use decoy instead of entice?

While the synonyms decoy and entice are close in meaning, decoy implies a luring into entrapment by artifice.

attempting to decoy the enemy into an ambush

Where would inveigle be a reasonable alternative to entice?

The words inveigle and entice can be used in similar contexts, but inveigle implies enticing by cajoling or flattering.

fund-raisers inveigling wealthy alumni

In what contexts can lure take the place of entice?

Although the words lure and entice have much in common, lure implies a drawing into danger, evil, or difficulty through attracting and deceiving.

lured naive investors with get-rich-quick schemes

When could seduce be used to replace entice?

The meanings of seduce and entice largely overlap; however, seduce implies a leading astray by persuasion or false promises.

seduced by assurances of assistance

When would tempt be a good substitute for entice?

In some situations, the words tempt and entice 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

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 entice To further entice consumers, AMD is also bundling the 5800X3D with Carbice’s Ice Pad, a new component that can replace traditional thermal paste used on a CPU. Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 1 June 2026 The Chiefs can be emotionally enticed by the prospect of the production. Sam McDowell, Kansas City Star, 29 May 2026 Looking for more ways to entice flocks of birds to your yard? Brittany Vanderbill, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 May 2026 Tucker faces charges of enticing a minor by computer and criminal attempt to commit risk of injury to a minor in connection with an investigation conducted by the Bloomfield Police Department. Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 28 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for entice
Recent Examples of Synonyms for entice
Verb
  • You also might be tempted to spend on luxury, art and beautiful things.
    Georgia Nicols, Denver Post, 30 May 2026
  • Rising from the Mediterranean, this little isle, full of dramatic peaks and grottoes, has been tempting travelers for 2,000 years.
    Laura Itzkowitz, Travel + Leisure, 30 May 2026
Verb
  • Three All Saints Episcopal School students lured a fourth student to participate in a TikTok challenge this month that became a catastrophic assault, leaving the boy unconscious for several minutes, temporarily paralyzed and with fractured vertebrae, according to a lawsuit filed this week.
    Emerson Clarridge, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 May 2026
  • Short selling can be an intellectually demanding approach to the market, and many inexperienced traders fall into a trap, lured by overvaluation and hype.
    David Capablanca, Forbes.com, 28 May 2026
Verb
  • In the piece, Mead examines Monroe's legacy, and how her disarming beauty still holds the power to seduce today.
    Rebecca Mead, Allure, 29 May 2026
  • That means seducing Paris Carver, Elliot's wife and Bond's ex, portrayed by Teri Hatcher.
    John Russell, PEOPLE, 19 May 2026
Verb
  • Some laughed as their classmates persuaded them.
    Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 29 May 2026
  • After an emotional meltdown, Ava agrees, hoping to persuade Deborah to change her mind.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 29 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Entice.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/entice. Accessed 6 Jun. 2026.

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