What does lure mean?
A lure is something that attracts attention or induces a person or animal to move toward it. The word commonly refers to a concrete bait or decoy, but it can also mean a broader temptation or inducement. As a verb, 'to lure' means to attract or entice someone, frequently into an undesirable situation or toward a concealed purpose. Its connotations depend on context: a lure may be an ordinary commercial device, such as a discount or attractive advertisement, or a deceptive instrument used in fraud or manipulation. The word’s history is closely associated with hunting and falconry, where bait was used to draw a bird within reach. Modern usage preserves that image of the target approaching voluntarily while the lure remains safely out of reach. Lure is therefore useful when describing the mechanism of attraction itself, especially when the attraction is deliberate.
An object, person, offer, or other means used to attract attention or tempt someone into approaching or acting in a particular way.
"The advertisement was designed as a lure for people looking for a bargain."
Often countable, especially for a concrete bait or decoy; it can also be used more generally for an attraction or inducement.
To attract, entice, or induce someone to approach or do something.
"The unknown caller tried to lure customers into transferring money."
Usually transitive, as in 'lure someone into something' or 'lure someone toward a place.' It can describe ordinary persuasion as well as deceptive or harmful enticement.
The plural is used for individual objects, people, or offers that function as enticements. The abstract sense is also used in the plural when referring to multiple temptations or inducements.
"The fishermen attached several colorful lures to their lines."
From falconry bait to online scams, a lure works by making its target move voluntarily toward the trap.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of lure
The word entered Middle English through Anglo-French lure, ultimately from Medieval Latin lura, a term associated with bait or a decoy; the ultimate origin of the Latin word is uncertain. Its early sense referred to a bait used in falconry, and the verb developed from the idea of drawing a target toward the bait. Modern figurative senses retain the contrast between the attracted target and the person or thing controlling the attraction. The related English word allure continues this etymological tradition, but the precise prehistoric source of the Latin term cannot be securely established.
Related word forms
How lure is actually used
The noun is countable when referring to a particular bait, decoy, or temptation, and can also be used in the abstract sense of attraction or inducement. The verb is commonly transitive, especially in constructions such as 'lure someone into something'; it often carries the implication of temptation, deception, or danger, though not always.
Easily confused with lure
A lure is usually a specific object, offer, or act intended to attract someone, whereas allure often means the broader quality of being attractive or charming.