Magnetism/ˈmæɡnətɪzəm/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Physical Phenomenon Understand that magnetism refers to a physical force exerted by magnets. Magnetism causes the compass needle to point north. Pro Tip 2/3Natural Force Recognize magnetism as an invisible, natural force like gravity. Just as gravity keeps us grounded, magnetism can make objects stick together. Pro Tip 3/3Scientific Context Magnetism is often discussed in science, especially physics. In physics class, we learned how magnetism works.