# magnetic

/mæɡˈnɛtɪk/ (US) · /mæɡnˈɛtɪk/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/magnetic
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. physical magnetism

adjective · CEFR B2

relating to or using the force of a magnet to pull metal objects.

For teachers: pertaining to, operating by, or exhibiting the properties of magnetism.

- The cabinet doors have a magnetic strip to keep them closed tightly.
- The researchers used a magnetic field to manipulate the iron particles within the liquid solution.

Usage: Usually placed before the noun.

### 3. Earth's poles

adjective · CEFR C1 · Technical

relating to the Earth's magnetic poles rather than the map's North Pole.

For teachers: determined by or relating to the Earth's magnetic fields as opposed to geographic ones.

- The compass points to magnetic north, not the true North Pole.
- Navigators must account for the difference between magnetic north and true north when plotting long-distance courses.

## Examples

- The magnetic force pulls the paperclip toward the metal bar.
- She has a magnetic personality that makes her the center of attention at every social gathering.
- The planet's magnetic field serves as a vital shield, redirecting solar radiation and protecting the atmosphere from being stripped away by high-energy particles.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.