Entry Word: engage

Function: verb

Meaning: 1 to hold the attention of <the challenging jigsaw puzzle engaged us all evening>

Synonyms absorb, busy, engross, enthrall (or enthral), fascinate, grip, immerse, interest, intrigue, involve, occupy

Related Words allure, attract, bewitch, captivate, charm, enchant; hypnotize, mesmerize; monopolize, preoccupy

Near Antonyms bore, jade, pall, tire, weary

2 to enter into contest or conflict with <the daring young captain was eager to engage the enemy>

Synonyms battle, encounter, face, meet, take on

Related Words emulate, rival; contend, fight, oppose

Near Antonyms elude, escape, evade; retreat

3 to obligate by prior agreement <we canʼt go to the dance because weʼre already engaged to attend a piano recital> — see pledge 1
4 to provide with a paying job <the wealthy couple are looking to engage a handyman to take care of the estate> — see employ 1
5 to take or get the temporary use of (something) for a set sum <my sister and her boyfriend have engaged a chauffeured limousine for the prom> — see hire 1