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

There are also some strong sequences in the climax to Nolan’s Batman trilogy — such as the riveting plane hijacking opener, and Bruce’s trial in The Pit. — James Hibberd, HollywoodReporter, 16 July 2026

At her new school, Weaver found that handling sheet metal was, well … riveting. — Bill Chappell, NPR, 9 July 2026

This season’s new fiction and nonfiction illuminate our manic world while offering riveting escapes. — Hamilton Cain, Time, 7 July 2026

Using a seamless combination of FaceTime calls, CCTV and news footage, and investigators’ video evidence, Aneesh Chaganty weaves a riveting, anxious, and classically creepy found footage movie that puzzles until its final moments. — Declan Gallagher, Entertainment Weekly, 7 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1677, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for riveting

• pivoting