captivating

adjective

cap·​ti·​vat·​ing ˈkap-tə-ˌvā-tiŋ How to pronounce captivating (audio)
: charmingly or irresistibly appealing
a captivating aroma
It's an utterly exotic combination of flavors, and a completely captivating one.Howard Seftel
Books with captivating stories and bright, uncomplicated artwork will enchant the very young without being too demanding.Ed Zotti
A captivating storyteller, he conveys the cozy domesticity of the small-time growers as well as the Technicolor style of life of the big deal-makers.Alison Friesinger
captivatingly adverb
a captivatingly sweet voice
Each room is named for a month, and January through December are captivatingly filled with fanciful hearts, flowers, and vines that trail over the beds, chests, and wardrobes. Mimi Elder

Examples of captivating in a Sentence

a captivating performance by the young singing sensation
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
However, stepping through the front door unveils a captivating burst of vibrant color and Dazey’s signature flower prints, all surprisingly harmonious. Lisa Boone, Los Angeles Times, 12 May 2025 The effect is subtle and quiet, but totally captivating. Audrey Noble, Vogue, 2 May 2025 The captivating track is a dynamic blend of reggaeton and rich Caribbean rhythms, painting a poignant narrative about young love that faces the challenges of social class divides. Griselda Flores, Billboard, 2 May 2025 The winners of the 85th Peabody Awards have been announced, recognizing the most captivating and inspiring stories released in broadcasting and streaming during 2024. Glenn Garner, Deadline, 1 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for captivating

Word History

First Known Use

1675, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of captivating was in 1675

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Cite this Entry

“Captivating.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/captivating. Accessed 20 May. 2025.

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