lodestone

American  

[lohd-stohn] / ˈloʊdˌstoʊn /

Or loadstone

noun

1. a variety of magnetite that possesses magnetic polarity and attracts iron.

2. a piece of this serving as a magnet.

3. something that attracts strongly.

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lodestone British  

/ ˈləʊdˌstəʊn /

noun

1. 1. a rock that consists of pure or nearly pure magnetite and thus is naturally magnetic

   2. a piece of such rock, which can be used as a magnet and which was formerly used as a primitive compass

2. a person or thing regarded as a focus of attraction

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lodestone Scientific  

/ lōd′stōn′ /

1. A piece of the mineral magnetite that acts like a magnet.

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Etymology

Origin of lodestone

1505–15; lode (in obsolete sense “way, course”) + stone

Example Sentences

"Carnage" is how Craig Fish from Lodestone brokers in London described the situation.

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2023

This couple of ornaments had immediately after dinner snatched their caps and ran on past the Lodestone Farm for a particular purpose.

From Acton's Feud A Public School Story by Swainson, Frederick

Thus Jack Bourne took his post as the noble British sportsman just behind the Lodestone Moat, whilst Raffles, with his ferret, worked the bank, which was honey-combed with rabbit-holes.

From Acton's Feud A Public School Story by Swainson, Frederick

It was with hearty thankfulness at the idea of being finally rid of Raffles that Jack walked over to the "Lodestone" by himself on the Thursday, jingling his last few shillings in his pockets.

From Acton's Feud A Public School Story by Swainson, Frederick

On the particular afternoon when this important match was to be played, Todd had strolled off to the Lodestone stream, laden with all the necessary tackle for the slaying of a few innocent perch.

From Acton's Feud A Public School Story by Swainson, Frederick