# magnetism

/ˈmæɡnəˌtɪzəm/ (US) · /mˈæɡnɪtˌɪzəm/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/magnetism
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

a physical force that pulls some metals toward each other. It also describes a special quality in a person that makes others feel attracted to them.

For teachers: the physical phenomenon produced by the motion of electric charge, resulting in attractive and repulsive forces between objects. In a figurative sense, refers to a powerful personal quality that draws interest or admiration from others.

## Examples

- The magnetism of the earth makes a compass needle point north.
- Scientists studied the planet's magnetism to understand why its atmosphere was so thin compared to Earth's.
- The candidate relied more on personal magnetism and rhetorical flair than on the specific details of his policy platform to win over the undecided voters.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable in both its physical and figurative senses.

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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.