Lure
/lʊər/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo tempt or attract someone or something to do or go somewhere, especially by offering something desirable.
/lʊər/
To tempt or attract with the promise of something desirable.
The promise of a free vacation lured them into the timeshare presentation.
💡 Simply: Think of it like dangling a shiny toy in front of a dog to get its attention. You're 'luring' them in with something they want.
👶 For kids: To trick someone into coming closer by offering them something fun or yummy.
More Examples
The sweet smell of the bakery lured customers into the shop.
The job offer with a high salary and benefits lured him away from his current company.
How It's Used
"The fisherman used a shiny lure to attract the fish."
"Advertisers often lure customers with special offers."
"They used a strategically placed food source to lure the bear into a capture cage."
Something that attracts people or animals; a bait or a decoy.
/lʊər/
An object or device used to tempt or attract animals or people.
The angler cast his favorite lure into the lake.
💡 Simply: It's like a tempting treat or toy that you use to get something to come closer. Like a fake mouse to tempt a cat.
👶 For kids: Something that you use to get something to come closer, like a shiny toy for a pet.
More Examples
The job offered a generous salary as a lure for skilled employees.
The promise of adventure was a powerful lure for the young explorers.
How It's Used
"He cast the lure into the water, hoping to catch a big fish."
"The falconer used a lure to train the bird."
"The lure of fame and fortune drove him to Hollywood."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
the lure of the open road
The strong attraction to travel and explore new places.
"After years of working in an office, she felt the lure of the open road and decided to travel the world."
From Middle English *lūren*, from Old French *leurre* ('bait, decoy'), of Germanic origin; related to Dutch *loer* ('a snare, trap').
The verb 'lure' and the noun 'lure' have been used since the Middle English period, often referencing falconry and the enticing of animals.
Memory tip
Imagine a shiny fishing lure dangling in front of a fish, tempting it to bite.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: leurre