German word

locken

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈlɔkən/

Meaning

  • verbattract

Example

Das Angebot lockt viele Kunden.

The offer attracts many customers.

Illustration for locken (attract)

More examples

Die Einladung lockt viele Leute zum Event.

The invitation attracts many people to the event.

Core concept

A striking feature or promise catches attention and brings people toward its source.

Common phrases

  • mit kostenlosen Proben locken

    attract with free samples

  • zum Event locken

    attract to the event

  • durch Werbung locken

    attract through advertising

Similar words

anziehen: To attract people or their attention through appeal or force.
anlocken: To draw someone toward a particular place, product, or offer.
verlocken: To tempt someone by making something seem especially appealing.
ködern: To lure someone in with bait, gain, or another tempting benefit.

Definition in German

jemanden durch ein Angebot, Versprechen oder einen Reiz zu sich bringen

Word origin

Locken is an inherited Germanic formation rather than a recent borrowing, and its historical meaning of enticing remains visible in modern uses.

Usage tips

  • An offer, price reduction, or other incentive can be the subject of locken, as well as a person or animal.

Other meanings

  • enticeverb
  • lureverb

Opposites

Related words

  • Verlockungenticementnoun
  • lockendenticingadjective

Word lists with this word