magnetism

noun

mag·​ne·​tism ˈmag-nə-ˌti-zəm How to pronounce magnetism (audio)
1
a
: a class of physical phenomena that include the attraction for iron observed in lodestone and a magnet, are inseparably associated with moving electricity, are exhibited by both magnets and electric currents, and are characterized by fields of force
b
: a science that deals with magnetic phenomena
2
: an ability to attract or charm

Examples of magnetism in a Sentence

Much of his success as a politician can be attributed to his personal magnetism. she managed to win the election by sheer magnetism
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Though the novel is European rather than American in setting, what is remarkable and universal is the connection drawn between the aestheticism of Hyacinth’s nature and the magnetism that anarchism holds for him. Adam Gopnik, The New Yorker, 24 Feb. 2025 His presence in the clubhouse was amazing, as was his magnetism. Jim Bowden, The Athletic, 17 Jan. 2025 The striking photography from cinematographer Lol Crawley suggests themes of modernity versus classicism — the waters of the Statue of Liberty, the majestic quarries of Carrara, Italy — but a sensual magnetism seeps into the visual style as well. Daron James, Los Angeles Times, 26 Dec. 2024 Safety and security are obviously going to lose in the fight against such fierce romantic magnetism, especially with Mitchum in the mix. James Mercadante, EW.com, 14 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for magnetism

Word History

First Known Use

1616, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of magnetism was in 1616

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Magnetism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/magnetism. Accessed 6 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

magnetism

noun
mag·​ne·​tism ˈmag-nə-ˌtiz-əm How to pronounce magnetism (audio)
1
a
: the property of attracting certain metals or producing a magnetic field as shown by a magnet, a magnetized material, or a conductor carrying an electric current
b
: the science that deals with magnetic occurrences or conditions
2
: the power to attract or charm others

Medical Definition

magnetism

noun
mag·​ne·​tism ˈmag-nə-ˌtiz-əm How to pronounce magnetism (audio)
: a class of physical phenomena that include the attraction for iron observed in lodestone and a magnet, are inseparably associated with moving electricity, are exhibited by both magnets and electric currents, and are characterized by fields of force

More from Merriam-Webster on magnetism

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