noun
magnet
MAG-nut/ˈmæɡnət/
An object whose field draws iron toward it.
A red horseshoe magnet attracts iron nails without touching them.
Etymology
Latin magnes meant lodestone, a naturally magnetic stone. Its name connects it with Magnesia, where magnetized ore was reportedly obtained.
In context
an overhead magnet or magnetic drum pulls steel food cans bottle caps and other ferrous objects away from the conveyor
More examples
- She uses a magnet to pick up scattered sewing needles.
- Two magnets stick together when opposite poles face each other.
- A small magnet holds the shopping list on the refrigerator.
Forms
magnet · magnets
magnetic adjective — Having or producing a magnetic field.
magnetism noun — The force exerted by magnetic fields.
Similar words
- lodestone
- A naturally magnetic mineral, rather than a manufactured object.
- electromagnet
- Requires an electric current to produce its magnetic field.