Lure
/lʊər/
To lure means to attract or tempt someone, often with a reward, or refers to the object used to entice someone or something.
Examples
- They set up a lure to catch the thief.
- He bought a new luring device for his rod.
- She lured him back with a heartfelt apology.
- The police used a fake website as a lure for hackers.
- Scammers often lure victims with fake lottery wins.
Meanings
The word lure entered English in the 13th century as luren, meaning to entice or deceive. It may have roots in hunting terminology, where decoys were used to draw in animals. Over time, it evolved to include metaphorical uses involving temptation.
Examples
- The store used discounts to lure in more customers.
- He was lured into the trap with promises of wealth.
- They lured the dog out of the woods with treats.
- Scammers often lure victims with fake lottery wins.
- She lured him back with a heartfelt apology.
Originally referred to a stuffed bird used in falconry to train hawks. The Latin root ludere (to play) suggests a sense of deception or game-playing, which carried over into modern usage.
Examples
- The fisherman cast a bright lure into the lake.
- The police used a fake website as a lure for hackers.
- This lure has been proven to catch bass quickly.
- They set up a lure to catch the thief.
- He bought a new luring device for his rod.