To attract someone into sexual activity or into doing something wrong or unwise. To entice or persuade someone away from proper conduct.
From Latin 'seducere' where 'se-' (aside, away) + 'ducere' (to lead) literally meant 'to lead aside.' The word passed through Old French 'seduire' into Middle English, maintaining its core meaning of leading someone astray from virtue or proper behavior.
Isn't it fascinating that 'seduce' literally means 'to lead aside'? The Latin Romans understood that seduction wasn't about force, but about gently guiding someone away from their intended path. This makes 'seduce' a cousin to 'educate' — both involve leading, but in opposite moral directions!
Seduction narratives historically coded women as victims and blamed female attractiveness for male behavior. Language tied seduction to feminine wiles rather than consent.
Use with attention to agency and consent; avoid gendered assumptions about who seduces whom or implies manipulation.
["persuade","attract","entice"]
Reclaim agency: seduction can be mutual attraction and choice by any party, not a gendered power play.
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