addicting

adjective

ad·​dict·​ing ə-ˈdik-tiŋ How to pronounce addicting (audio)
: 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

Examples of addicting in a Sentence

cocaine is highly addicting
Recent Examples on the Web Sucrose is the type of sugar labeled as bad or addicting. Monica Cull, Discover Magazine, 18 Sep. 2024 There are also various other factions around town, whose sale of Drops — the drug of choice in Gotham — as well as the promise of a new, more addicting drug, spell trouble. Bill Goodykoontz, The Arizona Republic, 17 Sep. 2024 Its burritos are arguably addicting, as evidenced by the many regulars who line up outside the truck, which posts up at a gas station off Six Forks. Zachery Eanes, Axios, 6 Sep. 2024 Experts say ketamine isn’t physically addicting the way an opioid drug can be. Brenda Goodman, CNN, 17 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for addicting 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'addicting.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

from present participle of addict entry 2

First Known Use

1931, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of addicting was in 1931

Dictionary Entries Near addicting

Cite this Entry

“Addicting.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/addicting. Accessed 7 Oct. 2024.

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