captivate
verb (used with object)
to attract and hold the attention or interest of, as by beauty or excellence; enchant.
captivated
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past participleof captivate.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof captivate.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
captivateverb (used with object)to attract and hold the attention or interest of, as by beauty or excellence; enchant.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Julianne Moore, Kate and Rooney Mara and Amanda Seyfried captivated in their showcases, while more young horror directors continue to rise worldwide.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 7, 2026
Arranged in three sections based on his interests as an observer—plants, labor conditions and architecture—the show centers on his wanderings and the marvels that captivated him forever after.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 30, 2026
He wants the judge to enter a not-guilty verdict, essentially dismissing the case after a weeks-long, televised trial that has captivated Americans.
From Barron's ● Sep. 29, 2026
“One of the things that captivated me about food was that it brings people together.”
From Salon ● Sep. 27, 2026
Hensleigh was not the only one in their circle captivated by spirits and ghosts.
From "Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith" by Deborah Heiligman
