magnetism

noun

mag·​ne·​tism ˈmag-nə-ˌti-zəm 

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

Synonyms

• allure
• animal magnetism
• appeal
• attractiveness
• captivation
• charisma
• charm
• duende
• enchantment
• fascination
• force field
• glamour
• glamor
• magic
• oomph
• pizzazz
• pizazz
• seductiveness
• witchery

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

An attractive deal comes with a catch… Read the full Capricorn Daily Horoscope Aquarius (January 20 - February 18) Capitalizing on your magnetism? —USA TODAY, 7 Dec. 2024

As with any artistic project that focuses on extremism and mass violence, The Order’s production team walked a fine line between showing Mathews’ magnetism and the murderous project at the heart of his ideology and actions. —Ali Winston, WIRED, 6 Dec. 2024

For instance, some people might gravitate toward the Venusian charms of beauty and grace, while others would trade it in a heartbeat for the brazen confidence and magnetism of a charismatic Mars placement. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 27 Nov. 2024

But by studying the moon’s chemical composition, geologic activity, gravity, magnetism and other properties, Clipper should be able to determine whether Europa has the right conditions to support life. —Jay Bennett, Smithsonian Magazine, 14 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1616, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing magnetism

• animal magnetism

Kids Definition

magnetism

noun

mag·​ne·​tism ˈmag-nə-ˌtiz-əm 

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 

: 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