# captivating

/ˈkæptɪˌveɪtɪŋ/ (US) · /kˈæptɪvˌeɪtɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/captivating
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

holding your attention because something is extremely interesting, beautiful, or charming. It makes you want to keep watching or listening.

For teachers: holding the attention by being extremely interesting, exciting, or charming. Often used to describe artistic performances, natural beauty, or charismatic individuals.

## Examples

- The view from the mountain top is absolutely captivating.
- The speaker told a captivating story that kept the entire audience silent for over an hour.
- Her performance was so captivating that even the most cynical critics found themselves unable to look away from the stage until the final curtain fell.

## Usage notes

- Often follows linking verbs like 'be', 'seem', or 'find' followed by an object ('I found the book captivating').

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