Pronunciation: [tˈɛmpts] (IPA) 
The word "tempts" is spelled with the letters T-E-M-P-T-S. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /tɛmptz/. This word is a verb that means to lead someone into doing something they shouldn't do, or to entice them into temptation. The "t" in "tempts" is pronounced as a stop consonant, while the "s" is pronounced as a voiceless fricative. The stress in this word is on the first syllable, "temp."
Tempt, in its verb form, refers to the act of enticing or offering something appealing to someone in order to persuade them to engage in an action or make a particular decision. This allure or enticement might be presented to test the person's self-control or to manipulate them into doing something they might otherwise refrain from doing. The term conveys the idea of presenting a temptation or inducement that is difficult to resist.
When someone tempts another individual, they typically offer them something desirable or promising, possibly even exploiting their desires or weaknesses, to provoke them into action. Temptation often relies on the appeal of pleasure, enrichment, or gratification, which can vary from material possessions and power to sensual experiences or personal satisfaction.
Moreover, the concept of temptation is often connected to morality or values, as it revolves around the conflict between knowing what is right or acceptable and being enticed by something that goes against those principles. It can test an individual's resilience, moral fiber, or adherence to their beliefs.
In summary, to tempt someone is to dangle something attractive before them, with the intention of influencing their decisions or actions. It encapsulates the idea of alluring or enticing someone into doing something they may otherwise avoid, often involving a struggle between personal desires and moral considerations.
The word "tempts" is derived from the Middle English term "tempten" which originated from the Old French word "tenter" meaning "to test, probe, or attempt". The Old French term, in turn, can be traced back to the Latin word "temptare" which means "to test, touch, or attempt". The Latin word has roots in the Proto-Indo-European word "temp-", meaning "to stretch". Hence, the word "tempts" ultimately refers to the act of testing, prodding, or enticing someone into doing something, often related to enticing them towards wrongdoing or engaging in sin.
