magnet
Magnet (noun) means an object, usually made of metal, that pulls certain other metals toward it through the force of magnetism. Example: “She stuck the shopping list to the fridge with a magnet.”
How to use magnet
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn object that pulls certain metals towards it.
An everyday, neutral word used in both casual and scientific contexts.
Magnet is a homophone of magnate, so listen for context to tell them apart.
Trace the full origin ↓Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She stuck the shopping list to the fridge with a _____.
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.
