allure

[uh-loor]

verb (used with object)

allured, alluring 

1. to attract or tempt by something flattering or desirable.

   Synonyms: lure, entice

2. to fascinate; charm.

   Synonyms: captivate, entrance, enchant

verb (used without object)

allured, alluring 

1. to be attractive or tempting.

noun

1. fascination; charm; appeal.

   Synonyms: attraction, glamour

allure

/ əˈlʊə, əˈljʊə /

verb

1. (tr) to entice or tempt (someone) to a person or place or to a course of action; attract

noun

1. attractiveness; appeal

   the cottage's allure was its isolation

Other Word Forms

• allurement noun
• allurer noun
• unallured adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of allure¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English aluren, from Middle French alurer, from a- a- ⁵ + lurer “to lure”; lure

Word History and Origins

Origin of allure¹

C15: from Old French alurer, from lure bait, _lure

Example Sentences

Rhythmically mesmerizing and harmonically alluring, Minimalism proved the most persuasive new musical method of the late 20th century.

From Los Angeles Times

But the movie stays in that postcard allure, never quite edging its earnest expressions of desire and anxiety into anything more stakes-driven or detailed, the way a love letter might rattle and console simultaneously.

From Los Angeles Times

“I adored the comedy scene in New York, but the allure of L.A. is undeniable,” she says.

From Los Angeles Times

The growing allure of watches with A-list history was enticing people to peddle dubious timepieces.

From Los Angeles Times

Poet Ghalib called the mango a "a sealed glass of honey", and hundreds of books have been written celebrating its allure.

From BBC

Related Words

• attraction 
• charisma 
• charm 
• enticement 
• glamor www.thesaurus.com
• magnetism 
• temptation