What does magnetically mean?
Magnetically is an adverb meaning “by means of magnetism” or “with magnetic force.” In its physical sense, it describes an action or result produced by magnetic attraction, as when two objects are magnetically joined or a material is magnetically held in place. In figurative use, it describes a person, quality, or event that exerts an unusually strong pull on other people. A performance may be described as magnetically engaging, or someone as magnetically drawn to a place or idea. The figurative sense emphasizes both attraction and fascination, often suggesting that the charm is difficult to resist. Although “magnetic” normally refers to magnetism itself, it has long been used figuratively for compelling personal appeal. “Magnetically” extends that figurative power into a vivid adverb, allowing writers to characterize attraction, fascination, or compelling force without describing them step by step.
adverbIn or by means of magnetism; with magnetic force. Figuratively, in a way that strongly attracts or enchants.
- By means of magnetic force or attraction.
- Figuratively, in a way that strongly attracts, enchants, or draws others.
"Her warm personality magnetically draws people into the conversation."
"The opposing poles held the two metal plates together magnetically."
"Her wit and confidence magnetically impressed everyone at the interview."
The word carries physics into the language of charm: a person can be magnetically compelling without any iron in sight.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does magnetically come from?
Magnetically is formed in English by adding the adverb-forming suffix -ly to magnetic. The adjective magnetic comes through Latin magneticus from Greek magnētikos, a word associated with magnets or lodestones; these objects were historically linked with Magnesia in ancient Greece. The English cognate magnet, together with magnetism and magnetize, belongs to the same lexical family. The suffix -ly follows the standard English pattern of turning an adjective into an adverb describing the manner of an action.
Related word forms
How magnetically is actually used
The adverb is used in both physical and figurative contexts. Its figurative use conveys exceptionally strong attraction, charm, or appeal and is common in literary and descriptive prose as well as ordinary speech.