addicting

adjective

ad·​dict·​ing ə-ˈdik-tiŋ 

: causing addiction : addictive

a

: causing a compulsive, chronic, physiological or psychological need for a habit-forming substance, behavior, or activity

Although codeine is potentially addicting, it rarely causes physical dependence when taken orally for a short time.

—Consumer Reports

b

: producing a strong inclination to do, use, or indulge in something repeatedly

This relish is typically used as a topping for bruschetta …—but I find it so addicting I can simply eat spoonfuls from a bowl.

—Francisco J. Robert

Synonyms

• addictive
• habit-forming

Examples of addicting in a Sentence

cocaine is highly addicting

Recent Examples on the Web

Experts say ketamine isn’t physically addicting the way an opioid drug can be. —Brenda Goodman, CNN, 17 Aug. 2024

These findings seem to confirm what parents have known all along—that new baby smell is addicting. —Alex Vance, Parents, 5 Aug. 2024

Instead of mind-numbing worksheets, take addicting lessons online and become fluent in up to 25 new languages with Rosetta Stone. —New Atlas, 30 July 2024

Nicotine is addicting and not always easy to shake. —Hannah Yasharoff, USA TODAY, 13 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

from present participle of addict entry 2

First Known Use

1931, in the meaning defined above