inveigle

Definition of inveiglenext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb inveigle differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of inveigle are decoy, entice, lure, seduce, and tempt. While all these words mean "to lead astray from one's true course," inveigle implies enticing by cajoling or flattering.

fund-raisers inveigling wealthy alumni

When is it sensible to use decoy instead of inveigle?

While in some cases nearly identical to inveigle, decoy implies a luring into entrapment by artifice.

attempting to decoy the enemy into an ambush

When might entice be a better fit than inveigle?

Although the words entice and inveigle have much in common, entice suggests drawing by artful or adroit means.

advertising designed to entice new customers

When could lure be used to replace inveigle?

The words lure and inveigle can be used in similar contexts, but lure implies a drawing into danger, evil, or difficulty through attracting and deceiving.

lured naive investors with get-rich-quick schemes

When is seduce a more appropriate choice than inveigle?

While the synonyms seduce and inveigle are close in meaning, seduce implies a leading astray by persuasion or false promises.

seduced by assurances of assistance

In what contexts can tempt take the place of inveigle?

The meanings of tempt and inveigle largely overlap; 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 inveigle But his wayward cousin Freddie constantly inveigles him into more serious mischief. Julian Lucas, New Yorker, 22 June 2026 Unlike his small-time Israeli rivals, the placards implied, Netanyahu was a savvy statesman who punched above his weight on the international stage, thanks to his unaccented English oratory and ability to inveigle the world’s most powerful people. Yair Rosenberg, The Atlantic, 22 May 2025 On hand for the séance is a thoroughly skeptical Poirot, inveigled to attend by a mystery-novelist friend, Ariadne Oliver. Mark Feeney, BostonGlobe.com, 11 Sep. 2023 Norman Mailer tried to inveigle his dinner guests into an orgy, and not long after wrote a cruel letter to Styron, breaking off their friendship. Marion Winik, Washington Post, 15 June 2023 At a ball where Byron was surrounded by a flock of ladies, Lamb inveigled the hostess to introduce her, and, having looked earnestly, wordlessly, into the poet’s face, Lamb immediately turned on her heel. Clare McHugh, Washington Post, 28 May 2023 Another threat that is likely to inveigle itself into the Web3 domain is phishing. Andrew Newman, Forbes, 4 May 2022 All of those thinly veiled efforts to inveigle an answer are met with a stock response. New York Times, 26 Nov. 2021
Recent Examples of Synonyms for inveigle
Verb
  • Colbert’s horse was persuaded to piaffe—to trot in place, knees up, in a way that’s required in advanced dressage competitions.
    Ian Parker, New Yorker, 14 Sep. 2026
  • In complex markets, buyers are rarely persuaded by product claims alone.
    Saul Marquez, Forbes.com, 14 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • Adva Lavie, an OnlyFans model, already is facing criminal charges in Los Angeles County for allegedly seducing and stealing from rich men.
    Richard Winton, Los Angeles Times, 17 Sep. 2026
  • Many have taken up such invitations, seduced by the island’s stress-free, go-slow rhythm.
    Michelle Jana Chan, Condé Nast Traveler, 14 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • While Bryan the Medical Courier may not be a marquee attraction, Abrams plays his bumbling so hilariously yet relatably that some kids may be enticed.
    Jesse Hassenger, Vulture, 17 Sep. 2026
  • Once inside the warehouse, shoppers tend to linger, enticed by a potent cocktail of comforting routine, retail adrenaline and cheap eats.
    Jessica Guynn, USA Today, 16 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • Irving played for the Cavs for six seasons, helping lure LeBron James back to The Land and win the 2016 NBA championship.
    Shakeia Taylor, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026
  • The 14-page document sets up a competition that may look something like a major corporate relocation, with states pitching packages of free land, university partnerships, state funding, and more to lure the federal government to choose their state.
    Eric Berger, ArsTechnica, 11 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • Closer by in Amenia, pop into Tent to be tempted by ceramics and rugs, and get midday pastries at Peggy’s, a sweet little bakery in the center of town.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Sep. 2026
  • You’ll be tempted to put it on before work presentations, fancy dinners, and even long-haul flights — given the fact that the object levels up casual and formal ‘fits in equal measure.
    Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 16 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • Hyaluronic acid and glycerin draw in moisture, while squalane and panthenol help keep delicate undereyes supple while peptides smooth the look of fine lines.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 18 Sep. 2026
  • Pima Air & Space Museum, Tucson, Arizona The Pima Air & Space Museum opened in 1976 and continues to draw in visitors who are curious about all things aviation.
    Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 16 Sep. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Podcast

Cite this Entry

“Inveigle.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inveigle. Accessed 22 Sep. 2026.

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