attract
Americanverb (used with object)
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to draw by a physical force causing or tending to cause to approach, adhere, or unite; pull (repel ).
The gravitational force of the earth attracts smaller bodies to it.
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to draw by appealing to the emotions or senses, by stimulating interest, or by exciting admiration; allure; invite.
to attract attention; to attract admirers by one's charm.
verb (used without object)
verb
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to draw (notice, a crowd of observers, etc) to oneself by conspicuous behaviour or appearance (esp in the phrase attract attention )
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(also intr) to exert a force on (a body) that tends to cause an approach or oppose a separation
the gravitational pull of the earth attracts objects to it
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to possess some property that pulls or draws (something) towards itself
jam attracts wasps
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(also intr) to exert a pleasing, alluring, or fascinating influence (upon); be attractive (to)
Other Word Forms
- attractable adjective
- attractableness noun
- attracter noun
- attractingly adverb
- attractor noun
- reattract verb (used with object)
- unattractable adjective
- unattracted adjective
- unattracting adjective
Etymology
Origin of attract
First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, from Latin attractus “drawn toward,” past participle of attrahere “to draw toward,” from at- at- + trahere “to draw, drag, pull”
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Kroger, while it still invests in its stores, is more focused on deals to attract shoppers, he said.
What do you know about Gen Z consumers, and how are you attracting their dollars?
Some residents claim East Lothian Council ignored a petition with 7,000 signatures on a "technicality," while an initial consultation attracted hundreds of objections.
From BBC
Despite suffering from "numerous" bald patches, a torn muzzle, and repairs to both pads on his paws and feet, the Edwardian bear attracted a lot of interest ahead of the sale.
From BBC
Handsome and dynamic, an orator with a flair for memorable rhyme, the Rev. Jesse Jackson was the first Black candidate for president to attract a major following.
From Los Angeles Times
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
