temptation

[temp-tey-shuhn]

noun

1. the act of tempting; enticement or allurement.

   Synonyms: inducement, seduction, pull, attraction, lure

2. something that tempts, entices, or allures.

3. the fact or state of being tempted, especially to evil.

4. an instance of this.

5. (initial capital letter),  the temptation of Christ by Satan. Matthew 4.

temptation

/ tɛmpˈteɪʃən /

noun

1. the act of tempting or the state of being tempted

2. a person or thing that tempts

Other Word Forms

• temptational adjective
• nontemptation noun
• pretemptation noun
• supertemptation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of temptation¹

First recorded in 1175–1225; Middle English temptacion, from Latin temptātiōn- (stem of temptātiō ) “a testing”; tempt, -ation

Example Sentences

Pilots warn their wranglers to avoid the temptation to inhale the escaping gas, noting that the “Alvin and the Chipmunks” voice isn’t worth the risk of fainting.

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It’s harder to succumb to this temptation—or, at least, it’s more awkward—under someone’s judging eye.

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It’s a good start that he convinced the Commissioner to stay, as long as the Mayor-elect can resist the temptation to pile on progressive demands.

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“It takes patience, I suppose, and a great many reminders, and we must be careful to avoid temptation, especially if the children are hungry. Treats are also useful, as a reward for good behavior.”

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It also features a rival group made up of five demons called the Saja Boys, whose song lyrics address themes including temptation and seduction.

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