engrossing

[en-groh-sing]

adjective

1. fully occupying the mind or attention; absorbing.

   I'm reading the most engrossing book.

Other Word Forms

• engrossingly adverb
• nonengrossing adjective
• nonengrossingly adverb
• unengrossing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of engrossing¹

First recorded in 1475–85; engross + -ing ²

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

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

Australia's bowlers fought back after they were bowled out for a modest total by South Africa as 14 wickets fell on an engrossing first day of the World Test Championship final.

From BBC

It was a final so engrossing that the Spanish national football team huddled around a mobile phone to watch before their Nations League meeting with Portugal.

From BBC

One surprising element of the show is several engrossing display cases with zines and memorabilia of daily life during those fraught days.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• absorbing 
• captivating 
• compelling 
• enthralling www.thesaurus.com
• exciting 
• fascinating 
• gripping 
• intriguing www.thesaurus.com
• riveting 
• stimulating