Attract

/əˈtrækt/

Meaning & Definition

verb

To cause to come nearer or to draw closer.

The bright lights of the carnival attract visitors from miles around.

To exert a pulling force on; to draw by appeal or influence.

The reputation of the school is likely to attract high-quality teachers.

To have a liking for; to be drawn to.

She tends to attract people who share her interests in art and music.

To bring about a particular reaction or response.

The advertisement is designed to attract attention to the new product.

To cause someone to feel interest or enthusiasm.

The novel had an intriguing plot that would surely attract readers.

From Latin 'attractus', past participle of 'attrahere' meaning 'to pull towards'.

pull in

to attract someone or something toward

catch someone's eye

to attract someone's attention

draw attention to

to make someone notice something

attraction

the action or power of attracting.

attractive

pleasing or appealing to the senses.

entice

to attract by offering pleasure or advantage.

hit on

He tried to hit on her at the party.

sway

She knew how to sway his attention.