WordLens

tempt

1 of 1verb
/tɛmpt/
Forms:tempts,tempting,tempted,tempted
1

to make someone do something that seems interesting, despite them knowing it might be wrong or not good for them

  • He tried to tempt his friend into joining the adventure by painting an exciting and exaggerated picture of the journey.
  • The aroma of freshly baked cookies tempted her to break her diet and indulge in a sweet treat.
  • The allure of easy money tempted him to participate in the risky investment scheme.
  • The promise of a lavish vacation tempted them into taking out a loan they couldn't afford to repay.
Synonyms:
enticelure
2

to feel the desire to do something

C1transitive
  • The urge to splurge on designer shoes tempted her every time she passed by the boutique window.
  • The prospect of spending a quiet evening at home with a good book tempted her after a long week.
  • The delicious aroma of freshly baked cookies tempted him to have just one more.
  • The idea of taking a day off work tempted him, but he knew he had too many responsibilities.
  • His offer of a free concert ticket tempted her into going even though she had other plans.
Synonyms:
allure
3

to lure or seduce someone into committing an immoral or unethical action by offering them something desirable

transitive
  • The con artist tempted unsuspecting victims with promises of quick and easy money.
  • The drug dealer tempted vulnerable teenagers with offers of free drugs.
  • The online scammer tempted users with phishing emails promising prizes or lottery winnings.
  • The cult leader tempted followers with promises of spiritual enlightenment and eternal salvation.