English Reference
adjective · verb · noun

engaging

adj. · v. · n.
US /ɛnˈɡeɪdʒɪŋ/ UK /ɛnɡˈeɪdʒɪŋ/ en·gag·ing

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.keeping your attention because it is interesting or exciting.

    adj.tending to occupy the attention or efforts of others; engrossing or interesting.

    Simple

    The teacher told an engaging story that kept the children quiet for an hour.

    In context

    The documentary provides an engaging account of the city's history, blending archival footage with modern interviews to maintain a brisk pace.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Formal

    adj.pleasant, attractive, and easy to like.

    adj.attractive or charming in a way that wins people over, often referring to a person's personality or smile.

    Simple

    He has such an engaging smile that everyone in the room felt welcome.

    In context

    Despite the difficult nature of the negotiations, she remained engaging and professional, which helped de-escalate the tension.

    Teacher's tip

    This sense is often used to describe social traits like a smile, a personality, or a manner of speaking.

    unpleasantoff putting
  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.taking part in something or starting a conversation.

    v.the present participle of 'engage', used to describe the act of participating in an activity or establishing a connection.

    Simple

    The students are engaging with the new material by asking lots of questions.

    In context

    By engaging directly with local residents, the council managed to address specific concerns regarding the new housing development.

    Usage

    Often followed by the preposition 'with'.

  4. 04 C1 Advanced Academic

    n.the act of starting to deal with or understand something.

    n.the process of establishing a meaningful connection or interaction with a subject or person.

    Simple

    The engaging of the gears was smooth and quiet.

    In context

    The successful engaging of the audience requires a deep understanding of their cultural background and expectations.

    Usage

    Usually functions as a gerund in formal writing.

After engaging with the accounts' profiles and posts, the BBC was added to multiple channels and WhatsApp groups.

BBC News· 14 Aug 2026

While recognising the value of white storks as a visible and charismatic species in engaging people, Natural England said releases of white storks “are not a priority for us”.

The Guardian· 14 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Common
Updated