lure

lure [loor]

n.

[ME < MFr leurre < OFr loirre, prob. < Frank or Goth * lōthr, akin to MDu loder, lure, OE lathian, to invite]

1. a device consisting of a bunch of feathers on the end of a long cord, often baited with food: it is used in falconry to recall the hawk

2.

a) the power of attracting, tempting, or enticing [the lure of the stage]

b) anything that so attracts or tempts

3. a bait for animals; esp., an artificial one used in fishing

vt.

lured, luring

1. to recall (a falcon) with a lure

2. to attract, tempt, or entice: often with on

lurer

n.

SYN.- LURE suggests an irresistible force, as desire, greed, curiosity, etc., in attracting someone, esp. to something harmful or evil [lured on by false hopes ]; ENTICE implies a crafty or skillful luring [he enticed the squirrel to eat from his hand ]; INVEIGLE suggests the use of deception or cajolery in enticing someone [they inveigled him with false promises ]; DECOY implies the use of deceptive appearances in luring into a trap [artificial birds are used to decoy wild ducks ]; BEGUILE suggests the use of subtly alluring devices in leading someone on [beguiled by her sweet words ]; TEMPT suggests the influence of a powerful attraction that tends to overcome scruples or judgment [I'm tempted to accept your offer ]; SEDUCE implies enticement to a wrongful or unlawful act, especially to loss of chastity

-ANT. REPEL