temptation
noun
temp·ta·tion
tem(p)-ˈtā-shən 
1
: the act of tempting or the state of being tempted especially to evil : enticement
2
: something tempting : a cause or occasion of enticement
Examples of temptation in a Sentence
Money is always a temptation.
The dessert menu has a lot of delicious temptations.
the temptations of the city
Recent Examples on the Web
Our confidence, creative expression and ambitions are amplified, but the temptation to dominate or make everything about praise and recognition is strong.
—
Valerie Mesa,
PEOPLE,
1 July 2026
Every writer knows the temptation to keep revising a text indefinitely, as well as the experience of rereading a book long after it has been published.
—
Literary Hub,
1 July 2026
The temptation is often to protect customer relationships by absorbing the increase.
—
Amy Powell,
Forbes.com,
30 June 2026
Making that decision beforehand removes the temptation to drive when conditions aren’t safe.
—
Aaa - Mountain Group,
Sacbee.com,
30 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for temptation
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Valerie Mesa,
PEOPLE,
1 July 2026
Every writer knows the temptation to keep revising a text indefinitely, as well as the experience of rereading a book long after it has been published.
—
Literary Hub,
1 July 2026
The temptation is often to protect customer relationships by absorbing the increase.
—
Amy Powell,
Forbes.com,
30 June 2026
Making that decision beforehand removes the temptation to drive when conditions aren’t safe.
—
Aaa - Mountain Group,
Sacbee.com,
30 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for temptation
Cite this Entry
“Temptation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/temptation. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
temptation
noun
temp·ta·tion
tem(p)-ˈtā-shən
1
: the act of tempting : the state of being tempted especially to evil
2
: something tempting
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
