attract
UK: əˈtrækt | US: əˈtrækt
vt. to draw or pull something/someone toward oneself by inherent qualities or force
vt. to evoke interest, admiration, or attention
vi. (archaic) to exert a pulling force
The word "attract" originates from Latin attractus, the past participle of attrahere (to draw near). The prefix ad- (toward) merged with trahere (pull), reflecting the physical or metaphorical action of drawing something closer. Over time, it expanded from literal pulling (e.g., magnetic force) to abstract appeal (e.g., charisma).
The magnet attracts iron filings effortlessly.
Bright colors attract children’s attention.
The festival attracts tourists from all over the world.
His kindness attracted many loyal friends.
The black hole’s gravity attracts nearby stars.