riveting

adjective

riv·​et·​ing ˈri-və-tiŋ 

: having the power to fix the attention : engrossing, fascinating

a riveting story

rivetingly

ˈri-və-tiŋ-lē 

adverb

Synonyms of riveting

• interesting
• intriguing
• fascinating
• engaging
• absorbing

Examples of riveting in a Sentence

a riveting explanation of light waves that fascinated the class

Recent Examples on the Web

Thematically, though, the late swerve is fully all of a piece with Oren’s riveting exploration of the nature of desire, and how that can reframe our relationship to the natural world around us. — Josh Slater-Williams, IndieWire, 11 Aug. 2026

With riveting storytelling, the novel could never have been authored by AI. — Monitor Reviewers, Christian Science Monitor, 10 Aug. 2026

The album is filled with riveting moments like these… not all of them to do with a father or current love interest. — Chris Willman, Variety, 9 Aug. 2026

After four faceoffs in the NBA Finals against the Warriors — with Steph Curry’s squad winning three — and after numerous riveting showdowns since, joining the Warriors would never not feel like joining the enemy. — Marcus Thompson Ii, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1677, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for riveting

• pivoting