magnet
1 synonym for magnet, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — An object, usually made of metal, that pulls certain other metals toward it through the force of magnetism.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
lodestone
How to use magnet
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
fridge magnet
bar magnet
horseshoe magnet
An everyday, neutral word used in both casual and scientific contexts.
Etymology
Magnet reached English through Old French from Latin magnes, which in turn came from Ancient Greek magnetis, meaning a Magnesian stone. That Greek term points to Magnesia, either the Lydian city or the Greek region it was named after. The words manganese, magnesia and magnesium share this same root.
Full origin of magnet →Frequently asked questions
What is a magnet?
A magnet is a piece of material, usually metal, that can attract certain other metals through the force of magnetism.
How does a magnet work?
A magnet works by producing a magnetic field around itself that pulls on certain metals, such as iron, causing them to be attracted towards it.
Where does the word magnet come from?
It comes from Ancient Greek, via Latin and French, ultimately referring to stone from the region of Magnesia.
