Absorbing: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'absorbing' when describing something that fully grabs and holds your attention, making you involved and interested in it.

• The book was so absorbing that I couldn't put it down.
• The lecture on space exploration was absorbing.

Choose 'engrossing' when referring to something that completely occupies your mind and attention, making you forget about everything else.

• The novel is engrossing - I forgot to eat lunch!
• He found the puzzle so engrossing that he lost track of time.

Opt for 'captivating' when something is very charming or delightful, and it attracts and keeps your attention in a magical way.

• The sunset over the ocean was simply captivating.
• The artist's performance was captivating and left the audience in awe.

Use 'compelling' to talk about something that is very powerful and persuasive, making you feel it is necessary or essential to pay attention to it.

• Her argument was so compelling that everyone agreed with her.
• The movie's plot was compelling and kept me on the edge of my seat.

This word is best used when describing something that fully takes up your attention or interest, to the point that you are deeply involved in it.

• The documentary was so absorbing that I lost track of time

This term is suitable when something completely occupies your mind and you find it hard to focus on anything else.

• The novel was so engrossing that I read it in one sitting

This word fits well when describing something that is so interesting or exciting that it holds your attention completely.

• The thriller was riveting; I couldn't look away from the screen

Use this word when you want to describe something that attracts and holds someone's attention or interest very strongly, often in a charming or enchanting way.

• Her captivating smile lit up the entire room

Used when something is so interesting or exciting that it holds your attention completely.

• The novel was so absorbing that she couldn't put it down.
• The documentary was absorbing, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.