riveting

adjective

riv·​et·​ing ˈri-və-tiŋ How to pronounce riveting (audio)
: having the power to fix the attention : engrossing, fascinating
a riveting story
rivetingly adverb

Examples of riveting in a Sentence

a riveting explanation of light waves that fascinated the class
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.
The hamster wheel chain competition popped up on day 60 of Big Brother season 27 as part of the White Locust twist and once again made for undeniably riveting television, but this time, the fan reaction was something else — outrage. Dalton Ross, Entertainment Weekly, 6 Oct. 2025 For inquisitive minds stashed in MLB front offices the Rockies represent an untapped opportunity and a riveting research project. Andy McCullough, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2025 Zackman’s delivery connects at all levels, making this a riveting listening experience. Audiofile Magazine september 30, Literary Hub, 30 Sep. 2025 The birthing scene in episode 11 was the most accurate, gory, and riveting fictional depiction of childbirth in television history, in my opinion. Kathleen Newman-Bremang, Refinery29, 29 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for riveting

Word History

First Known Use

1677, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of riveting was in 1677

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Riveting.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/riveting. Accessed 15 Oct. 2025.

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