tempt
UK: /tɛmpt/ | US: /tɛmpt/
vt. to entice or persuade someone to do something, often something unwise or wrong
vt. to provoke or attract someone’s interest or desire
vt. (archaic) to test or try someone’s resolve
The word "tempt" originates from the Latin temptare, meaning "to test, try, or provoke." This evolved into Old French tempter before entering Middle English as "tempten." The core idea of testing or provoking someone’s resolve (often toward wrongdoing) has persisted, reflecting its Latin roots. The modern sense of luring or enticing someone aligns with the notion of "testing" their moral or practical resistance.
The smell of fresh cookies tempted her to break her diet.
He was tempted by the offer of a high-paying job abroad.
The devil is said to tempt humans into sin.
The challenging puzzle tempted her curiosity.
(Archaic) The ordeal tempted his faith to its limits.