gripping 1 of 2

adjective

Definition of grippingnext
as in interesting
holding the attention or provoking interest I found the exhibit on the Holocaust intensely gripping and quite moving

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

gripping

2 of 2

verb

present participle of grip
1
as in clenching
to have or keep in one's hands gripped the handlebars tightly and raced down the hill

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in fascinating
to hold the attention of as if by a spell that true crime story gripped me as much as any whodunit

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3
as in intriguing
to hold the attention of that movie will grip any true sports car fan

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
4
as in grasping
to reach for and take hold of by embracing with the fingers or arms the baby gripped my fingers and wouldn't let go

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of gripping
Adjective
These sensors ensure the glove maintains sufficient gripping force while the object is being carried, reducing the risk of accidental drops and enabling safer, more natural hand movements. — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 7 July 2026 Documentary branch voters, who will determine the shortlist and the eventual five nominees, may also prove open to Closure, a gripping film from Poland. — Matthew Carey, Deadline, 7 July 2026
Verb
What could have been a throwaway nibble instead becomes a thought-through, gripping preface that sets up what’s to come. — Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2026 The Komodo dragon has serrated teeth and a habit of gripping prey and then shaking its head side to side to rip the flesh away from the bone. — ArsTechnica, 9 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for gripping
Recent Examples of Synonyms for gripping
  1. interesting
  2. clenching
  3. fascinating
  4. intriguing
  5. grasping
  6. engaging
  7. clutching
  8. enchanting
Adjective
  • Among the most interesting pendant necklaces of summer 2026, fish stand out.
    — Selene Oliva, Glamour, 18 July 2026
  • But that doesn’t mean your arrangement should be any less interesting or beautiful.
    — Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 18 July 2026
Definition of interesting
Verb
  • While not everyone experiences such dramatic effects, experts say stress, clenching and even past trauma can contribute to TMJ issues.
    — Nicole Bennett, AJC.com, 22 May 2026
  • The Beloved, his first film in Competition at Cannes, is an incredible achievement that builds on all those films and leaves them standing in the dust, hitting all the same tense throat-clenching beats but somehow transcending genre altogether.
    — Damon Wise, Deadline, 16 May 2026
Definition of clenching
Verb
  • Wilentz, author of the 2010 book Dylan in America, wrote Volume 18‘s detailed, often fascinating 125-page liner notes that provides historical context for the expansive eight-CD set.
    — Glenn Peoples, Billboard, 7 Nov. 2025
  • Once on the ground visitors can enjoy Greenland’s rugged coastal landscapes, fascinating indigenous Inuit culture, and the opportunity to experience the country at its primordial best.
    — Arati Menon, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Jan. 2025
Definition of fascinating
Verb
  • The first four episodes made available for review likewise have tiny sparks of interest, from some witty dialogue to genuine plot momentum to intriguing new characters popping up.
    — Kelly Lawler, USA Today, 21 June 2026
  • His 6-foot-6 frame and power potential offer intriguing athletic tools.
    — Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 21 June 2026
Definition of intriguing
Verb
  • The recorded force patterns were later replayed to teach the robot to repeat successful grasping motions autonomously.
    — Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 13 July 2026
  • In any case, the scheme shaping the film’s stakes is introduced from the get-go, in a sultry opening credits scene where the camera glides over curly telephone cords and grasping hands in close-up.
    — Beatrice Loayza, Variety, 11 July 2026
Definition of grasping
Adjective
  • Unlike most humans, AI systems can be endlessly engaging, infinitely patient, and relentlessly affirming.
    — Greg Rosalsky, NPR, 14 July 2026
  • Alternatively, generative AI could allow people to work longer as productivity increases, pushing up wages and letting workers focus on engaging tasks, according to Sanzenbacher.
    — Lorie Konish, CNBC, 13 July 2026
Definition of engaging
Verb
  • Alexander, who signed a two-way deal with Utah last week, made contact with the Bulls' Caleb Wilson while driving toward the basket and, after tossing the ball toward the hoop, went behind the basket clutching his side or abdomen.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 14 July 2026
  • The post also included a snap of the rescuing officer clutching the cat — who appeared much calmer, caught on camera mid-yawn.
    — Rachel Raposas, PEOPLE, 13 July 2026
Definition of clutching
Verb
  • The rolling meadows, forests, and enchanting Monet gardens form an artistic canvas that complements the hotel’s interiors.
    — Veronica M. Stoddart, Travel + Leisure, 30 June 2026
  • The rookie showman is proving his mettle as part of the Caballero Circus, a five-generation family of performers, by enchanting audiences with his charismatic stage presence and sharp coordination.
    — Andrea Flores, Los Angeles Times, 19 May 2026
Definition of enchanting

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Cite this Entry

“Gripping.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/gripping. Accessed 21 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on gripping

Nglish: Translation of gripping for Spanish Speakers

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