attract

[ uh-trakt ]

verb (used with object)

1. 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.

2. 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)

1. to possess or exert the power of attraction.

attract

/ əˈtrækt /

verb

1. to draw (notice, a crowd of observers, etc) to oneself by conspicuous behaviour or appearance (esp in the phrase attract attention )
2. 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

3. to possess some property that pulls or draws (something) towards itself

   jam attracts wasps

4. also intr to exert a pleasing, alluring, or fascinating influence (upon); be attractive (to)

Derived Forms

• atˈtractable, adjective
• atˈtractor, noun

Other Words From

• at·tracta·ble adjective
• at·tracta·ble·ness noun
• at·tracting·ly adverb
• at·tractor at·tracter noun
• reat·tract verb (used with object)
• unat·tracta·ble adjective
• unat·tracted adjective
• unat·tracting adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of attract¹

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”

Word History and Origins

Origin of attract¹

C15: from Latin attrahere to draw towards, from trahere to pull

Example Sentences

That could help Spotify decrease subscriber churn, increase advertising dollars and attract new customers.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite all the turmoil, Bitcoin continues to attract attention from investors and big companies.

From BBC

Former ministers described to us the competing goals of major government departments, for example a Home Office attempting to keep numbers down, in opposition to a Treasury that wants tax revenue from more workers, a Health ministry that’s reliant on overseas workers to keep the NHS functioning and a Business department that wants to attract entrepreneurs.

From BBC

By 1999, Lineker was hosting the show, and reaching audiences the BBC sometimes struggled to attract and retain.

From BBC

“It’s always been my biggest threat. I’ve always got a kick out of seeing my teammates succeed and being able to attract defenses and being able to read and just try to put the ball on time, on target,” James said.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• appeal to
• bring
• captivate
• draw
• engage
• entice
• fascinate
• interest
• intrigue
• invite
• kill
• send