engross

[en-grohs]

verb (used with object)

1. to occupy completely, as the mind or attention; absorb.

   Their discussion engrossed his attention.

   She is engrossed in her work.

   Synonyms: engage, immerse, involve

2. to write or copy in a clear, attractive, large script or in a formal manner, as a public document or record.

   to engross a deed.

3. to acquire the whole of (a commodity), in order to control the market; monopolize.

engross

/ ɪnˈɡrəʊsɪdlɪ, ɪnˈɡrəʊs /

verb

1. to occupy one's attention completely; absorb

2. to write or copy (manuscript) in large legible handwriting

3. law to write or type out formally (a deed, agreement, or other document) preparatory to execution

4. another word for corner

Other Word Forms

• engrossedly adverb
• engrosser noun
• engrossed adjective
• reengross verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of engross¹

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English engros(s)en “to gather in large quantities, draft (a will, etc.) in final form,” from Anglo-French engrosser, partly from Medieval Latin ingrossāre “to thicken, write large and thick” ( Latin in- in- ² + gross(us) “thick” + -āre infinitive suffix); partly from Anglo-French, Middle French en gros “in quantity, wholesale,” from Latin in + grossus; gross

Word History and Origins

Origin of engross¹

C14 (in the sense: to buy up wholesale): from Old French en gros in quantity; C15 (in the sense: to write in large letters): probably from Medieval Latin ingrossāre; both from Latin grossus thick, _gross

Example Sentences

The evangelical mixing of musical genres and geography had its touristy elements; however engaging and engrossing the wonder-making, it was always fleeting.

From Los Angeles Times

Said Palmer, engrossed in preparing the program for the last eight months: “It’s time.”

From Los Angeles Times

People with no connection to the Post Office told the BBC how they became engrossed watching.

From BBC

Australia's bid to win back-to-back World Test Championships ended in disappointment after they lost an engrossing final to South Africa at Lord's.

From BBC

Their children were engrossed in a movie in the living room.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• bewitch 
• captivate 
• enrapture 
• enthrall 
• fascinate 
• immerse 
• preoccupy