captivating
Americanadjective
Other Word Forms
- captivatingly adverb
- uncaptivating adjective
Etymology
Origin of captivating
First recorded in 1670–80; captivat(e) ( def. ) + -ing 2 ( def. )
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.
In the intervening weeks, he held interviews and wrote letters from his jail cell, denouncing slavery and captivating the country with his dedication and resolve.
From Slate • Apr. 2, 2026
Given the stakes, a cagey start would have been excused, but these old rivals had other ideas during a thunderously captivating first half.
From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026
After captivating audiences as Aunt Gladys in the summer horror hit, Madigan is navigating Oscar buzz, press interest and ‘exciting’ conversations about what’s next.
From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 1, 2026
The two events offered some of the most captivating work in recent memory, from paintings that integrate AI to head-spinning ceramic sculptures.
From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 28, 2026
The more I participated in class, the more I realized that I was no longer interested in the lesson plan because of the possible reward, but because I genuinely found the lesson captivating.
From "The Freedom Writers Diary" by The Freedom Writers
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
