verb (used with object), se·duced, se·duc·ing.
- to lead astray, as from duty, rectitude, or the like; corrupt.
- to persuade or induce to have sexual intercourse.
- to lead or draw away, as from principles, faith, or allegiance: He was seduced by the prospect of gain.
- to win over; attract; entice: a supermarket seducing customers with special sales.
verb (tr)
- to persuade to engage in sexual intercourse
- to lead astray, as from the right action
- to win over, attract, or lure
v.1520s, “to persuade a vassal, etc., to desert his allegiance or service,” from Latin seducere “lead away, lead astray,” from se- “aside, away” (see secret (n.)) + ducere “to lead” (see duke (n.)). Sexual sense, now the prevailing one, is attested from 1550s and apparently was not in Latin. Originally “entice (a woman) to a surrender of chastity.” Related: Seduced; seducing. Replaced Middle English seduisen (late 15c.), from Middle French séduire “seduce,” from Old French suduire “to corrupt, seduce,” from Latin subducere “draw away, withdraw, remove,” from sub- “from under, further” (see sub-) + ducere “to lead” (see duke).