Enthrall: meaning, definitions and examples
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enthrall
[ɪnˈθrɔːl ]
Definition
captivate
To capture the fascinated attention of; to charm, captivate, or enchant.
Synonyms
captivate, charm, enchant, fascinate, mesmerize.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
enthrall |
Use 'enthrall' when something captures and holds someone's full attention in a powerful way.
|
captivate |
Use 'captivate' when something attracts or holds someone's interest or attention strongly.
|
charm |
Use 'charm' when someone's personality or mannerisms are pleasing and make others like them.
|
enchant |
Use 'enchant' when something delights or attracts someone as if by magic.
|
fascinate |
Use 'fascinate' when something arouses strong interest or curiosity in someone.
|
mesmerize |
Use 'mesmerize' when something so completely engrosses someone that they are transfixed or hypnotized by it.
|
Examples of usage
- She was so enhtalled by the magician's performance that she couldn't look away.
- The book enhtalled readers with its gripping plot and vivid characters.
- The beauty of the artwork enhtalled all who beheld it.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- Originates from the Middle English word 'enthrallen', meaning to enslave or hold fast.
- Combines 'en-' (to cause) and 'thrall', an Old English term for a servant or slave, indicating a strong hold over someone.
- The term evolved from a sense of being captivated to its current meaning, indicating a more positive connotation.
Psychology
- Captivating experiences activate the brain's reward system, releasing dopamine, which is linked to feelings of pleasure.
- Engagement in a captivating activity can improve focus, learning, and memory retention as the brain prioritizes that experience.
- People are often more enthralled when stories evoke strong emotions, illustrating the connection between emotion and attention.
Literature
- Many authors aim to enthrall readers with vivid imagery and compelling narratives, creating immersive worlds.
- Literary heroes and villains often enthrall audiences through their complex motivations and actions, making them memorable.
- Classic tales, like those of Shakespeare, use powerful language and drama to enthrall audiences through the ages.
Pop Culture
- Movies that keep viewers on the edge of their seats, like thrillers or fantasy adventures, are often said to enthrall their audiences.
- Famous magicians and illusionists use captivating performances to enthrall their spectators, creating a sense of wonder.
- Popular music can enthrall listeners, drawing them into the emotion of the song and making them want to sing along.
Translations
Translations of the word "enthrall" in other languages:
🇵🇹 encantar
🇮🇳 मोहित करना
🇩🇪 begeistern
🇮🇩 memikat
🇺🇦 зачарувати
🇵🇱 oczarować
🇯🇵 魅了する (miryou suru)
🇫🇷 enchanter
🇪🇸 cautivar
🇹🇷 büyülemek
🇰🇷 매혹하다 (maehokhada)
🇸🇦 يأسر (yasir)
🇨🇿 uchvátit
🇸🇰 uchvátiť
🇨🇳 迷住 (mízhù)
🇸🇮 očarati
🇮🇸 heilla
🇰🇿 сүйсіндіру
🇬🇪 მოხიბლვა (mokhiblva)
🇦🇿 cəzb etmək
🇲🇽 cautivar