attraction

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 Visitors can pair stargazing with nearby attractions like ghost towns and the John Day Fossil Beds. Michael D'estries, Travel + Leisure, 6 May 2026 The company, like other attractions operators, does not break out its attendance figures for individual parks and resorts. Dewayne Bevil, The Orlando Sentinel, 6 May 2026 Meanwhile, admissions revenue rose, food and beverage sales beat internal forecasts, and D’Amaro was upbeat about new cruise ships and attractions. Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 6 May 2026 The sloths either died during the importation process or while in the attraction's care, according to an investigation published by Inside Climate News in April. Julia Gomez, USA Today, 6 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for attraction
Recent Examples of Synonyms for attraction
magnet
Noun
  • China’s decision to suspend exports of a wide range of rare earths and related magnets, and its ban on semiconductors from Nexperia China, upended supply chains central to global automakers, with political and economic consequences across Europe, Japan, and South Korea.
    Anniek Bao, CNBC, 11 May 2026
  • Ballantyne West Tucked into far south Charlotte near the South Carolina border, Ballantyne West has become a magnet for professionals and families who want suburban polish with urban convenience.
    Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Charlotte Observer, 11 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Attraction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/attraction. Accessed 13 May. 2026.

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