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 That subscription data, entertainment, and safety service offers complementary base services, but owners are enticed to upgrade for premium services. Michael Harley, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026 The wellness experts have been enticed from big hitting destination spas such as Chiva Som in Thailand and Vana in India, and are perceptive and highly experienced, although communications between departments could be better. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 June 2026 The film, therefore, has no age rating, so cannot be advertised in a manner that would entice minors to see it. Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 29 June 2026 If Andrew opts out, he potentially still could be enticed into a double sign-and-trade, going to the Lakers, with LeBron landing in Miami. Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 28 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for entice
Recent Examples of Synonyms for entice
Verb
  • But even if you’re tempted to drown your chicken in the sweet and savory cranberry barbecue sauce, try to hold a little back.
    Justin Brown, AJC.com, 12 July 2026
  • Opt for the Vionic Walk Max Sneakers that’ll tempt you to ditch your other kicks altogether.
    Kyra Surgent, InStyle, 10 July 2026
Verb
  • Opened as a hotel in 1873, the property has attracted A-listers over the decades, including Alfred Hitchcock, Rita Hayworth, Frank Sinatra, and George Clooney (luring him from his own Como home nearby).
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 July 2026
  • Over the last decade, China reversed its brain drain, luring thousands of skilled workers back home to help fuel its rise as a technology powerhouse.
    Priyanka Salve, CNBC, 15 July 2026
Verb
  • With its winning trifecta of sandy beaches, boutique hotels, and unpretentious tavernas, the Greek island of Milos seduces couples, water lovers, and gastronomes alike.
    Helen Iatrou, Travel + Leisure, 11 July 2026
  • That book is a revenge fantasy about the former art school professor who seduced her, discarded her and destroyed her confidence as a painter.
    The Week UK, TheWeek, 2 July 2026
Verb
  • Four lobbyists who persuaded their clients to pay tour expenses, but did not report them, now face misdemeanor violations of the gift ban.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 15 July 2026
  • Numbers like that are persuading brands to start treating in-game ads and product placements as a serious channel rather than a spare-budget experiment.
    Manal Albarakati, semafor.com, 15 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Entice.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/entice. Accessed 17 Jul. 2026.

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