riveting

adjective

riv·​et·​ing ˈri-və-tiŋ 

: having the power to fix the attention : engrossing, fascinating

a riveting story

rivetingly

ˈri-və-tiŋ-lē 

adverb

Synonyms of riveting

• interesting
• intriguing
• fascinating
• engaging
• absorbing

Examples of riveting in a Sentence

a riveting explanation of light waves that fascinated the class

Recent Examples on the Web

After four faceoffs in the NBA Finals against the Warriors — with Steph Curry’s squad winning three — and after numerous riveting showdowns since, joining the Warriors would never not feel like joining the enemy. — Marcus Thompson Ii, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2026

This month brings riveting novels about dogs, stars (the Hollywood kind), small towns and characters with bigger woes than just sweat stains. — Colin Dwyer, NPR, 4 Aug. 2026

Viola Davis has transformed into many riveting characters throughout the years. — Adrianne Reece, InStyle, 31 July 2026

Told from the points of view of the hiker, a game warden in search of her, and a mysterious retiree who is somehow connected, Heartwood is a riveting and moving account of the high-stakes search for a missing woman and so much more. — The Week Us, TheWeek, 31 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1677, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for riveting

• pivoting