Definitions

tempt

[tempt] / tɛmpt /

VERB

lure, entice

Synonyms

STRONGEST

appeal to attract captivate charm dare fascinate induce intrigue invite motivate persuade seduce stimulate tantalize woo

STRONG

allure bait coax court decoy draw entrap honey up hook incite influence instigate inveigle move oil promote provoke risk rouse solicit test train try wheedle whet

WEAK

butter up draw out lead on make mouth water mousetrap play up to turn one's head

Antonyms

STRONGEST

bore depress discourage disenchant dissuade hinder offend prevent repel repulse

STRONG

delight deter dishearten dull halt please reject release stop turn off

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

While not trying to become Labour leader herself, West had hoped to tempt others to launch a bid.

From BBC • May 11, 2026

To blithely swivel so much concrete out into space, and in earthquake country, seems to tempt fate.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

What could tempt Japanese companies to bring money back home is this year’s spectacular gains in Japanese stocks.

From Barron's • Feb. 25, 2026

“Will the community retain its artistic elements, horse properties, trails, rural feel, and architectural heritage even as property values arise and the economic benefits of more density and hillside development tempt builders and political entities?”

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 19, 2026

But I was far from the protection of my teacher and my home, and I didn’t want to tempt Ucho’s anger by showing my face.

From "The Ugly One" by Leanne Statland Ellis

Vocabulary lists containing tempt

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