magnetic Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective of or relating to or caused by magnetism
    • magnetic forces
  2. adjective having the properties of a magnet; i.e. of attracting iron or steel
    magnetized; magnetised.
    • the hard disk is covered with a thin coat of magnetic material
  3. adjective capable of being magnetized
  4. adjective determined by earth's magnetic fields
    • magnetic north
    • the needle of a magnetic compass points to the magnetic north pole
  5. adjective satellite possessing an extraordinary ability to attract
    charismatic.
    • a charismatic leader
    • a magnetic personality

WordNet

Mag*net"ic, Mag*net"ic*al adjective (Also<
  • Magnetic
  • Magnetical
)
Etymology
L. magneticus: cf. F. magnétique.
Definitions
  1. Pertaining to the magnet; possessing the properties of the magnet, or corresponding properties; as, a magnetic bar of iron; a magnetic needle.
  2. Of or pertaining to, or characterized by,, the earth's magnetism; as, the magnetic north; the magnetic meridian.
  3. Capable of becoming a magnet; susceptible to magnetism; as, the magnetic metals.
  4. Endowed with extraordinary personal power to excite the feelings and to win the affections; attractive; inducing attachment.
    She that had all magnetic force alone. Donne.
  5. Having, susceptible to, or induced by, animal magnetism, so called; as, a magnetic sleep. See Magnetism.
Mag*net"ic noun
Definitions
  1. A magnet. Obs.
    As the magnetic hardest iron draws. Milton.
  2. Any metal, as iron, nickel, cobalt, etc., which may receive, by any means, the properties of the loadstone, and which then, when suspended, fixes itself in the direction of a magnetic meridian.

Webster 1913