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magnetically

C1
adverb

Pronunciation

UK

  • /mæɡnˈɛtɪkli/

US

  • /mæɡˈnɛtɪkəli/
  • /mæɡˈnɛtɪkli/

Description

Think of a fridge covered in colorful magnets: that is magnetism at work. When something happens magnetically, it is moved, held, aligned, or affected by magnetic force. But the word is not only used in science. It can also describe the way someone or something seems to pull people in very strongly, almost as if by an invisible force. A charming leader, performer, or place can attract people magnetically, drawing them in with little effort.

The word comes from "magnet," and it points to the invisible force that magnets create. You might say a compass needle is magnetically aligned, or that information is stored magnetically on a hard drive. In both literal and figurative use, the idea is the same: something is being pulled, guided, or held by a force that cannot be seen.

Examples

  1. 1

    Badge attachment

    The name badge attaches magnetically to your shirt.

  2. 2

    Cabinet closure

    The cabinet door is held closed magnetically, so there is no visible latch.

  3. 3

    Data storage

    The data on the old card was stored magnetically on a dark stripe.

  4. 4

    Figurative attraction

    She felt magnetically drawn to the quiet little bookshop on the corner.

    • Pattern

      magnetically drawn to + person/place/thing

      strongly attracted to it

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • magneticallyadverb