verb B1 Intermediate Common

attract

uh-TRAKT

Attract (verb) means to pull something toward oneself, especially by a physical or magnetic force. Example: “A magnet attracts iron filings.”

verb

To pull something toward oneself, especially by a physical or magnetic force.

"A magnet attracts iron filings."

To draw interest, attention, or liking from someone.

"The bright storefront attracted plenty of curious shoppers."

"He was immediately attracted to her sense of humor."

How to Use Attract

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo pull something or someone closer, whether physically, through interest, or romantically.

Common pairings

attract attention attract customers attract criticism

Word Forms

attracted past tense, attract plural, attracted plural, attracts singular, attract singular, attracted singular, attractest singular, attractedst singular, attracteth singular

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “attract” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

A magnet _____ iron filings.

Etymology

From Latin attrahere, "to draw toward," from ad- ("to") plus trahere ("to draw, pull").

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

View more →

allure draw

Antonyms

repel chase

Related Words

river draw pull describe tag chase drag convert

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “attract” mean?

The word “attract” means to pull something toward oneself, especially by a physical or magnetic force. In plain terms, to pull something or someone closer, whether physically, through interest, or romantically.

How do you pronounce “attract”?

“Attract” is pronounced uh-TRAKT (/əˈtɹækt/ in IPA).

How do you use “attract” in a sentence?

Here is “attract” used in a sentence: “A magnet attracts iron filings.”

What is another word for “attract”?

Words with a similar meaning to “attract” include allure and draw.

What is the opposite of “attract”?

The opposite of “attract” — its antonyms — are repel and chase.

What part of speech is “attract”?

“Attract” is a verb.

Where does the word “attract” come from?

The word “attract” comes from Latin. From Latin attrahere, "to draw toward," from ad- ("to") plus trahere ("to draw, pull").

Is “attract” a common word?

“Attract” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

People Also Searched

allure draw repel chase river pull describe tag drag convert