riveting

riv·et·ing | \ ˈri-və-tiŋ

How to pronounce riveting (audio)

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Definition of riveting

: having the power to fix the attention : engrossing, fascinating a riveting story

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Examples of riveting in a Sentence

a riveting explanation of light waves that fascinated the class

Recent Examples on the Web Long, slow rituals are the hallmark of this film, none of them longer, slower, more meticulous or riveting, in their grisly way, than the work of a volunteer team that recovers and autopsies corpses strewn all across the ravaged land. — Joe Morgenstern, WSJ, "‘Atlantis’ Review: Sunken Souls," 21 Jan. 2021 The film is a study of ennui made riveting by Ceylan’s delicate camerawork—awake to both the city’s glowering beauty and the minor calibrations of a moody face—and that staple of farce, the yoking of opposites. — Yasmine Seale, Harpers Magazine, "Slow Burn," 5 Jan. 2021 One of the most riveting segments of the movie details Fedorov’s defection. — Helene St. James, Detroit Free Press, "'The Russian Five' debuts on PBS: Relive the thrills of Detroit Red Wings' iconic group," 17 Dec. 2020 The former Army officer, who had been advised to take interviews only from conservative media outlets, agreed to talk with Nathaniel Penn, and the result is an incredibly riveting and comprehensive piece on his case. — Cheri Lucas Rowlands, Longreads, "Longreads Best of 2020: Investigative Reporting," 21 Dec. 2020 The riveting and superbly acted Iranian drama, based on a real variety show, poses a moral crucible born out of a theocratic system that disfavors women amid the heightened tension of the on-camera spectacle. — Carlos Aguilar, Los Angeles Times, "Review: Reality TV, Iranian-style, in ‘Yalda, a Night for Forgiveness’," 10 Dec. 2020 The hottest book of this holiday season, this first volume of former President Obama’s memoirs is characteristically clear, insightful, riveting and deeply personal. — John J. Kelly, Detroit Free Press, "Holiday gift guide 2020: The best books bring comfort and joy," 7 Dec. 2020 The gripes about Helton have remained largely unchanged since what might go down as his one shining moment, the strong finish to the 2016 season that ended with a riveting Rose Bowl victory over Penn State. — Ben Bolch, Los Angeles Times, "A muffled UCLA-USC rivalry game might be best for Chip Kelly and Clay Helton," 11 Dec. 2020 Whitney White, the groundbreaking aspects of Baldwin’s play were searingly realized: The story of a Harlem preacher — Black and female — navigating challenges to her faith, family and ministry, illuminated a timelessly riveting struggle. — Washington Post, "Best theater of 2020: Sondheim’s birthday, ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’ Mary Neely, ‘The Amen Corner’ and more," 9 Dec. 2020

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'riveting.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Dictionary Entries near riveting

riveting hammer

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Last Updated

26 Jan 2021

Cite this Entry

“Riveting.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/riveting. Accessed 27 Jan. 2021.

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