Meaning & Definition of Temptation in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: A desire to do something that is often considered wrong or unwise.

  Example Sentence: The temptation to indulge in sweets was overwhelming.

• Definition: An enticing attraction or appeal.

  Example Sentence: The temptation of adventure called to him.

• Definition: The act of tempting or the state of being tempted.

  Example Sentence: She struggled with the temptation to cheat on the exam.

Etymology

Origin: Late Middle English, from Old French 'temptation', from Latin 'temptationem', from 'temptare' meaning 'to try, to test'.

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• resist temptation: To avoid giving in to a desire.
• temptation island: A situation where people are tested by having their desires confronted.
• give in to temptation: To yield to a desire considered wrong.

Translations

• Spanish: tentación

• French: tentation

• German: Versuchung

• Russian: искушение

Related Words

• tempt: To entice someone to do something.

• tempting: Appealing to desire; enticing.

Slang Meanings of temptation

• Meaning: The pull to do something reckless or fun.

  Example Sentence: He couldn't resist the temptation to skip class and go to the beach.

• Meaning: Being distracted by something appealing.

  Example Sentence: I was trying to focus on my work, but the temptation of scrolling through social media was too strong.