attract
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /əˈtrækt/
KK: /əˈtrækt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To have the ability to draw attention or interest towards oneself.
Example
The bright colors of the flowers attract many bees.
Tense Forms
Past: attracted
Past Participle: attracted
Conversation
I noticed that some flowers attract more bees than others.
Yeah, it's interesting how nature works like that.
I wonder if there are certain colors that attract them more.
Definitely! Bright colors usually catch their eye.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
draw
entice
lure
Antonyms
repel
dissuade
avert
transitive verb
Definition
To draw someone or something closer or to make them interested in something.
Example
The bright colors of the flowers attract many bees.
Tense Forms
Past: attracted
Past Participle: attracted
Conversation
I really love how that art exhibit can attract so many visitors.
Yeah, it's amazing! The colors and designs are really eye-catching.
I think it's great how art can attract different people together.
Root Explanation
Attract → It is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "tractus" (meaning to pull or draw). The word "attract" means to pull or draw something towards oneself.
Memory Tip
Think of something being 'pulled towards' ('ad-' means to, and 'tractus' means to pull) — that's why attract means to draw something in.
Visually Confused Words
reattract
tetract
tract
cataract
afteract
acetract
abstract