Inviting

/ɪnˈvaɪtɪŋ/ adjective

Definition

Attractive or appealing in a way that makes you want to do something or go somewhere.

Etymology

From Old French 'inviter,' derived from Latin 'invitare' meaning 'to invite' or 'to summon.' The word originally meant to formally request someone's presence.

Kelly Says

Your brain decides whether something is inviting in milliseconds—it's called 'thin-slicing,' and studies show quick first impressions are surprisingly accurate despite being made almost instantly!

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Women described as 'inviting' often carries sexual subtext; rarely applied to men in equivalent contexts.

Inclusive Usage

Use for hospitality or openness in behavior/spaces. Avoid when describing appearance if context suggests sexual framing.

Inclusive Alternatives

["welcoming","open"]

Related Words

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