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.

He left our number, hoping the lure of a big sale might tempt Jaf himself to call back.

From BBC • May 12, 2026

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

From BBC • May 11, 2026

Indian stocks, still at higher multiples than emerging market peers, need to fall by 20% to tempt global investors back, Budaghyan estimates.

From Barron's • Mar. 5, 2026

“I can’t see the red text notification buttons when it’s in grayscale, so it doesn’t tempt me as much,” she said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 7, 2026

If Luke’s way of thinking could even tempt Annabeth, there was no telling how many other half-bloods might join him.

From "The Sea of Monsters" by Rick Riordan

Vocabulary lists containing tempt

Achievement First 5th Grade IA 1 Words

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Other Words for Home

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Promises to Keep

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!