tempt
Tempt (verb) means to try to get someone to do something, often something unwise, usually by making it look appealing. Example: “The smell of fresh bread tempted him to buy a loaf he didn't need.”
How to use tempt
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo make someone want to do something, especially something they probably shouldn't.
Word forms
tempted past tense, tempts singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The smell of fresh bread _____ him to buy a loaf he didn't need.
Etymology
From Old French tempter, from Latin temptare ("to test, try, handle"), a frequentative form of tendere ("to stretch").
Related words
Rhymes for tempt
See all rhymes for tempt →Frequently asked questions
What does “tempt” mean?
The word “tempt” means to try to get someone to do something, often something unwise, usually by making it look appealing. In plain terms, to make someone want to do something, especially something they probably shouldn't.
How do you pronounce “tempt”?
“Tempt” is pronounced tehmpt (/tɛmpt/ in IPA).
How do you use “tempt” in a sentence?
Here is “tempt” used in a sentence: “The smell of fresh bread tempted him to buy a loaf he didn't need.”
What part of speech is “tempt”?
“Tempt” is a verb.
Where does the word “tempt” come from?
The word “tempt” comes from Latin. From Old French tempter, from Latin temptare ("to test, try, handle"), a frequentative form of tendere ("to stretch").
Is “tempt” a common word?
“Tempt” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.