temptation

[ temp-tey-shuhn ]

noun

1. the act of tempting; enticement or allurement.

   Synonyms: inducement, seduction, pull, attraction, lure

2. something that tempts, entices, or allures.
3. the fact or state of being tempted, especially to evil.
4. an instance of this.
5. (initial capital letter) the temptation of Christ by Satan. Matthew 4.

temptation

/ tɛmpˈteɪʃən /

noun

1. the act of tempting or the state of being tempted
2. a person or thing that tempts

Other Words From

• temp·tation·al adjective
• nontemp·tation noun
• pretemp·tation noun
• super·temp·tation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of temptation¹

First recorded in 1175–1225; Middle English temptacion, from Latin temptātiōn- (stem of temptātiō ) “a testing”; tempt, -ation

Example Sentences

He adds: “I am certainly aware of people who... succumbed to the temptation.”

From BBC

When David Cameron became Leader of the Opposition later that year, he initially resisted the temptation to impose a cap, but he too became convinced that a number was deliverable.

From BBC

Having claimed for months that he wanted his government to serve its full term into next year, the temptation of positive polls has clearly proved too much.

From BBC

In my own understanding, God's work needs to be done, yet this world's distractions and temptations keep me far from the ministry and teachings of Jesus Christ.

From Salon

For some viewers, however, the real temptation comes from wanting to recreate the masterpieces featured on-screen — or improve upon bakes that don’t quite hit the mark.

From Salon