Engrossed: meaning, definitions and examples

Being deeply involved in an activity, with full attention focused on it, often to the extent of ignoring everything else.

• She was so engrossed in her book that she didn't hear the phone ring.
• He was engrossed in his work and didn't notice the time passing.

Being fully concentrated or engaged in something, often used for activities that require significant mental effort.

• The scientist was absorbed in her research for hours.
• The children were absorbed in the movie.

Being deeply involved in an activity or experience, with full focus and involvement, can be used for both positive and neutral situations.

• She was immersed in the culture during her trip to Japan.
• He immersed himself in his studies to prepare for the exams.

Being strongly attracted or charmed by something, capturing one's interest or attention, often used in a positive context.

• The young audience was captivated by the magician’s performance.
• She was captivated by the beauty of the sunset.

Extremely interested or intrigued by something, drawn in by its compelling nature, used in a positive or neutral context.

• He was fascinated by the complexity of the puzzle.
• She was fascinated by the intricate details of the painting.

Use 'engrossed' when someone is deeply involved or fully focused on an activity or subject, often to the point of ignoring their surroundings.

• She was so engrossed in her book that she didn't hear the phone ring
• He became engrossed in the game and lost track of time

Use 'captivate' when someone or something commands attention and interest, often in a charming or fascinating way. It implies a sense of attraction.

• The musician's performance captivated the audience
• Her storytelling abilities captivated the children

Use 'enthrall' when someone is so fascinated or captivated that they have lost control over their attention. It implies being spellbound or enchanted.

• The magic show enthralled the young audience
• She was enthralled by his tales of adventure

Use 'absorb' when referring to the act of fully taking in or assimilating information, knowledge, or an activity. It implies a thorough engagement, often for learning or understanding.

• He spent the afternoon absorbing information from various books
• The students were so absorbed in the lecture that they didn't notice the time passing

Use 'engulf' in more dramatic or intense situations where something is completely surrounded or overwhelmed, often with a somewhat negative connotation.

• The house was engulfed in flames
• He was engulfed by feelings of sorrow