Definition of attractionnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun attraction differ from other similar words?

The words affinity and sympathy are common synonyms of attraction. While all three words mean "the relationship existing between things or persons that are naturally or involuntarily drawn together," attraction implies the possession by one thing of a quality that pulls another to it.

felt an attraction to danger

When is affinity a more appropriate choice than attraction?

While the synonyms affinity and attraction are close in meaning, affinity implies a susceptibility or predisposition on the part of the one drawn.

an affinity for mathematics

When might sympathy be a better fit than attraction?

The meanings of sympathy and attraction largely overlap; however, sympathy implies a reciprocal or natural relation between two things that are both susceptible to the same influence.

two minds in sympathy

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of attraction The attraction allows groups to compete in game-show-style challenges and would be the company’s first location in the Sacramento area, according to the Sacramento Business Journal, which previously reported on plans for the business. — Nicole Buss, Sacbee.com, 1 Oct. 2026 Among those visitors, of course, are our suburban neighbors, coming into the city for restaurants, shows, sporting events and countless other attractions. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 1 Oct. 2026 Among the new attractions is a four-story, full-immersion, sugary overload called iCandy Experience. — Justin Davidson, Curbed, 1 Oct. 2026 Yoyogi Park, of course, offers its own attractions, housing the Meiji Shrine with its iconic fixture of consecrated sake barrels. — Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 30 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for attraction
Recent Examples of Synonyms for attraction
magnet
Noun
  • On one side are some parents, police union leaders and students who participate in the district’s police academy magnet programs.
    — Howard Blume, Los Angeles Times, 7 Oct. 2026
  • The Palm Court, where a harpist plays from the balcony and the tea-time decor charms, is arguably the visual centerpiece of the hotel—and clearly a magnet particularly for snap-happy travelers from beyond the UK who want to indulge in a great cuppa.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Attraction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/attraction. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on attraction

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!