Alluring: meaning, definitions and examples

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alluring

 

[əˈljʊərɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

describing appearance

Having the quality of being attractive or tempting; enticing.

Synonyms

attractive, captivating, enticing, tempting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
alluring

Use 'alluring' when describing something or someone that has a mysterious and seductive charm that pulls you in.

  • The actress wore an alluring dress to the premiere, capturing everyone's attention
  • The fragrance of the flowers in the garden was alluring
attractive

Use 'attractive' to describe something or someone that is pleasing to look at due to their physical appearance or other appealing qualities.

  • She is an attractive person with a warm smile
  • The house has an attractive design with its modern architecture
enticing

Use 'enticing' when describing something that is very alluring and tempting, often used for things that are being offered or advertised.

  • The bakery displayed an enticing array of pastries in the window
  • She received an enticing job offer with a higher salary and benefits
captivating

Use 'captivating' to describe something or someone that holds your attention completely because they are so interesting or charming.

  • The storyteller had a captivating way of speaking that kept the audience engaged for hours
  • The view from the mountaintop was truly captivating
tempting

Use 'tempting' when describing something that appeals to your desires or urges, often suggesting something that might not be entirely good or appropriate.

  • Skipping class to go to the beach was a tempting idea, but she knew she should attend her lectures
  • The chocolate cake looked very tempting

Examples of usage

  • She had an alluring smile that captivated everyone around her.
  • The alluring scent of fresh flowers filled the room.
  • The alluring beauty of the sunset took my breath away.
Context #2 | Verb

seduction

To attract or tempt someone in a subtle, seductive manner.

Synonyms

entice, seduce, tempt.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
alluring

Use to describe something or someone that is very attractive or charming in a way that draws people in.

  • The artist's latest painting is incredibly alluring, with its rich colors and deep details.
  • Her smile was so alluring that everyone couldn't help but be drawn to her.
entice

Use to describe the act of luring someone in or attracting someone by offering something appealing.

  • The smell of fresh pizza enticed customers into the restaurant.
  • They used special discounts to entice new customers to their store.
tempt

Use to describe the act of encouraging someone to do something they find attractive but probably shouldn't do. This word often implies a moral or ethical dilemma.

  • The sight of the chocolate cake was tempting, but she decided to stick to her diet.
  • Despite the high salary, he was not tempted to accept the job because of its unethical practices.
seduce

Use to describe the act of leading someone astray or persuading them to do something, often with a connotation of deception or moral compromise. This word often carries a negative connotation.

  • He tried to seduce her with flattery and expensive gifts.
  • The promise of quick riches seduced many into the risky investment.

Examples of usage

  • She allured him with her charm and wit.
  • The mysterious stranger allured the young woman with his enigmatic smile.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Old French word 'aleurer,' which means to bait or lure.
  • Its root word 'lure' is related to attracting or enticing someone or something.
  • The term has been used in English since the late 14th century, evolving in definition to suggest a deeper charm.

Literature

  • In poetry and prose, alluring characters often represent temptation or desire, captivating the reader's attention.
  • Classic literature features alluring settings as a backdrop for romance and adventure, enhancing the storytelling experience.
  • Authors like Edgar Allan Poe use alluring imagery to create an atmosphere of mystery and intrigue.

Psychology

  • Studies show that attractiveness can influence human behavior, making individuals more persuasive or convincing.
  • The allure of something can trigger emotional responses, leading to ‘approach behaviors’ where people gravitate towards what fascinates them.
  • Cognitive biases, like the halo effect, can make alluring things appear even more attractive based on their appealing qualities.

Art and Design

  • In visual art, alluring aesthetics often employ color and light to draw viewers’ attention and evoke strong emotions.
  • Fashion design heavily relies on the allure of garments and accessories to attract customers, often using bold styles and striking patterns.
  • Advertising uses alluring visuals and concepts to captivate consumers, effectively enhancing the product's appeal.

Pop Culture

  • Alluring characters in films often embody traits of charm and mystery, such as femme fatales in film noir.
  • Pop songs frequently celebrate allure in relationships, highlighting seduction and attraction as central themes.
  • Influencers on social media often use alluring imagery and lifestyles to engage followers and build their brand.

Translations

Translations of the word "alluring" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sedutor

🇮🇳 आकर्षक

🇩🇪 verführerisch

🇮🇩 memikat

🇺🇦 звабливий

🇵🇱 uwodzicielski

🇯🇵 魅力的な

🇫🇷 séduisant

🇪🇸 seductor

🇹🇷 çekici

🇰🇷 매혹적인

🇸🇦 جذاب

🇨🇿 svůdný

🇸🇰 zvodný

🇨🇳 迷人的

🇸🇮 zapeljiv

🇮🇸 aðlaðandi

🇰🇿 әсем

🇬🇪 მომხიბლავი

🇦🇿 ədalətli

🇲🇽 seductor

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,922, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.