Langimage
English

tempt

|tempt|

B2

/tɛmpt/

entice or provoke

Etymology
Etymology Information

'tempt' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'temptare,' where 'tempt-' meant 'to test or try.'

Historical Evolution

'temptare' transformed into the Old French word 'tempter,' and eventually became the modern English word 'tempt' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to test or try,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to entice or provoke.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to entice or allure someone to do something, especially something wrong or unwise.

The advertisement was designed to tempt people into buying the product.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to provoke or incite someone to do something.

He was tempted to speak out against the injustice.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39