Tempter Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tempter

[ˈtemptər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

evil

A person or thing that entices or leads someone into temptation.

Synonyms

deceiver, enticer, seducer, seducer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tempter	Used to describe someone or something that tries to make you do something wrong or unwise, typically in a moral or ethical context. The tempter whispered in his ear, urging him to betray his friends. She felt like a tempter, suggesting risky business ideas to her cautious partner.
seducer	Primarily used to describe someone who persuades another to engage in sexual activity. It often implies manipulation or deceit, and can carry a negative or morally dubious connotation. She saw him as a seducer, always using his charm to get what he wanted. The story revolves around a seducer who ruins the lives of the women he entangles with.
enticer	Describes someone or something that attracts or lures someone into a particular action or behavior, usually by appealing to their desires or interests. The advertisement acted as an enticer, luring customers with the promise of huge discounts. He was an enticer, always knowing how to draw people into his plans with charming words.
deceiver	Refers to someone who tricks or lies to others, often with the intention of causing harm or gaining personal advantage. This term often carries a negative connotation. He was known as a deceiver, always taking advantage of people's trust. The deceiver crafted an elaborate scheme to embezzle funds from the company.

Examples of usage

The tempter whispered in his ear, urging him to give in to his desires.
She saw him as a tempter, a dangerous seducer who could lead her astray.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

religious

A figure or force that tempts or tests someone's faith or loyalty.

Synonyms

Satan, demon, devil, evil spirit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tempter	Used to describe something or someone that entices or lures someone into doing something, usually negative or immoral. He acted as a tempter, convincing her to skip her responsibilities The dessert was a tempter, even though I know I am on a diet
Satan	Specifically refers to the primary evil being in Christian and Islamic theology; often used to signify extreme evil in a person or situation. Some people view him as the embodiment of Satan because of his heinous crimes Depictions of Satan often show him as a fallen angel
devil	Typically refers to the chief evil spirit in various religions, or someone who behaves very badly. It can be used both literally and metaphorically. The devil is often depicted with horns and a pitchfork He was a devil on the soccer field, showing no mercy to his opponents
demon	Often refers to an evil supernatural being or a person's inner struggles or fears. Can be used figuratively to describe a person who is particularly cruel or malicious. She battled her demons in silence The old house is said to be haunted by a demon
evil spirit	Describes a malevolent supernatural entity. It's commonly used in religious or supernatural contexts. They believed the house was plagued by an evil spirit The shaman performed a ritual to banish the evil spirits

Examples of usage

In the Bible, Satan is portrayed as the ultimate tempter, testing the faith of believers.
The monk saw the challenges he faced as tests from the tempter, designed to strengthen his resolve.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The word 'tempter' originally comes from the Latin word 'temptare', which means to try or test.
In medieval literature, tempters are often depicted as beings that challenge a person's virtue and willpower.
The concept has been around since ancient times, often associated with figures who lead others to sin or wrongdoing.

Literature

In John Milton's 'Paradise Lost', the tempter is represented as Satan, who tries to lead Adam and Eve to disobedience.
Shakespeare often included tempters in his plays, using characters to illustrate moral dilemmas.
Tempters in fairy tales typically appear as characters that offer something desirable at a significant cost, teaching lessons about temptation.

Psychology

Psychologists study temptation to understand human behavior, focusing on how desires can lead to self-control failure.
The 'marshmallow test' is a famous experiment demonstrating children's ability to resist temptation for a greater reward later.
Cognitive dissonance often arises when people feel tempted to act against their better judgment, leading to internal conflicts.

Religion

In many religious texts, tempters are often portrayed as adversaries of moral authority, testing believers' faith and values.
In Christianity, the tempter is often identified with Satan, who offers worldly pleasures in exchange for spiritual downfall.
Buddhism introduces the concept of Mara, a tempter who tries to distract individuals from their path toward enlightenment.

Pop Culture

Many films feature tempter characters, such as the seductive femme fatale, who leads the hero into trouble.
In music, songs often explore themes of temptation, where artists reflect on the allure of choices that lead to regret.
Video games frequently utilize tempters as villains that challenge players' morals, forcing them to make difficult decisions.

Origin of 'tempter'

The word 'tempter' has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Old French term 'temptour', which in turn comes from the Latin 'temptator', meaning 'one who tempts'. The concept of a tempter, a being or force that leads others into temptation or tests their faith, has been a part of human mythology and religious beliefs for centuries. The idea of temptation and the struggle to resist it is a recurring theme in literature, art, and religious texts.

See also: tempt, temptation, tempting, temptingly, temptress.