as in interesting
holding the attention or provoking interest
I found the exhibit on the Holocaust intensely gripping and quite moving
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
1
as in clenching
to have or keep in one's hands
gripped the handlebars tightly and raced down the hill
Synonyms & Similar Words
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
Synonyms & Similar Words
3
as in intriguing
to hold the attention of
that movie will grip any true sports car fan
Synonyms & Similar Words
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
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Recent Examples of gripping
Lei Takanashi,
Pitchfork,
16 June 2026
In several photos and videos posted on social media, the 30-year-old can be seen descending the sheer face of the crater and gripping handholds while performing various acrobatic tricks before falling into the volcanic waters below.
—
Drew Pittock,
USA Today,
15 June 2026
Alanna Martine Kilkeary,
Glamour,
27 June 2026
Paris police authorities requested Friday the cancelation of this weekend's Diamond League track and field meeting in the French capital because of the historic heat wave gripping the country and stretching emergency services.
—
ABC News,
26 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for gripping
Adjective
The most gripping moments occur when Wiki turns inward.
—
Lei Takanashi,
Pitchfork,
16 June 2026
In several photos and videos posted on social media, the 30-year-old can be seen descending the sheer face of the crater and gripping handholds while performing various acrobatic tricks before falling into the volcanic waters below.
—
Drew Pittock,
USA Today,
15 June 2026
Verb
The pros recommend primers with gripping technology and hydrating ingredients, like glycerin, plant oils, shea butter, and hyaluronic acid.
—
Alanna Martine Kilkeary,
Glamour,
27 June 2026
Paris police authorities requested Friday the cancelation of this weekend's Diamond League track and field meeting in the French capital because of the historic heat wave gripping the country and stretching emergency services.
—
ABC News,
26 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for gripping
Recent Examples of Synonyms for gripping
Adjective
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One interesting trend is that this tournament will feature some very good tight ends, a position that has become increasingly important in college football and the NFL but not so much in high school football in the era of spread offenses.
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But perhaps the most interesting aspect of this news is the potential military applications for this new engine.
Verb
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While not everyone experiences such dramatic effects, experts say stress, clenching and even past trauma can contribute to TMJ issues.
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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.
Verb
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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.
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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.
Verb
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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.
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His 6-foot-6 frame and power potential offer intriguing athletic tools.
Verb
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There’s likely to be grasping, resisting, skillful and futile efforts to swim and worry about what’s up ahead.
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Pick it up with both hands, gently grasping the shell just behind the front legs.
Adjective
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Below, members of Forbes Technology Council share ways organizations can make cybersecurity training more engaging so essential security habits are more likely to stick.
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Audiences want a quiet, efficient, relaxing, fun, visually engaging, communal experience unavailable at home.
Verb
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People milled about clutching small rainbow flags from the human rights organization Outright International.
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The hosts discuss Sorsby as a product of both his own mistakes and opportunistic pearl clutching among college sports leaders.
Verb
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The rolling meadows, forests, and enchanting Monet gardens form an artistic canvas that complements the hotel’s interiors.
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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.
Cite this Entry
“Gripping.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/gripping. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
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