逗引 is a compound verb meaning 'to entice' or 'to lure', often with playful or deliberate intent. The first character, 逗 (dòu), means 'to tease' or 'to amuse', carrying a light, interactive connotation — like coaxing a pet or playfully provoking a reaction. The second character, 引 (yǐn), means 'to lead', 'to draw', or 'to attract', emphasizing direction or influence. Together, 逗引 suggests drawing someone or something in through gentle, engaging behavior rather than force or deception.

This word is commonly used in contexts involving animals (e.g., luring a shy cat with food or sound), children (e.g., encouraging a toddler to walk by waving a toy), or even in literary or figurative descriptions of charm or allure. It implies intentionality and interpersonal or interspecies interaction, and usually carries a neutral-to-positive tone — never harsh or manipulative. It’s more vivid and action-oriented than generic synonyms like 吸引 (attract) and less formal than 诱导 (induce).