Enthralled: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used to describe a strong, almost spellbound interest or attention to someone or something. It implies a deeper and more intense feeling than just being entertained.

• She was enthralled by the storyteller's captivating tales.
• The audience sat enthralled by the performance.

Used when someone is deeply and pleasantly interested or attracted by something. It often implies a sense of charm or admiration.

• He was captivated by her beauty and grace.
• The book's vivid description of the scenery captivated me.

Describes a strong interest or curiosity in something. It often suggests a desire to know more or be involved more deeply.

• As a child, he was fascinated by dinosaurs.
• I'm fascinated by their innovative approach to solving problems.

Usually describes a mild and pleasant form of attraction. It often implies a sense of being pleasantly surprised or delighted by someone's personality or something's niceness.

• Everyone at the party was charmed by his quick wit.
• She was charmed by the quaint little village.

Implies a more hypnotic, almost magical attraction or attention. It often suggests being so absorbed that one is unaware of surroundings.

• The fans were mesmerized by the singer's powerful performance.
• She was mesmerized by the flowing movements of the dancers.

Used when someone is completely absorbed or fascinated by something, usually in a positive manner.

• She was enthralled by the captivating storyline of the movie
• The children were enthralled by the magician's performance

Employed to describe when someone captures the attention or affection of others in a strong emotional way.

• The dancer's grace and beauty captivated the entire audience
• His charismatic speech captivated the crowd

Used to express a strong interest or curiosity about something, making it hard to look away or stop thinking about it.

• The complexity of the human brain fascinates scientists
• Young children are often fascinated by dinosaurs

Most suitable for describing the act of attracting someone or something through appeal or seduction, often in a gentle and pleasing way.

• Her winning smile charms everyone she meets
• He was charmed by the quaint little village

Typically used to describe holding someone’s attention so completely that they are barely aware of anything else, often with a sense of enchantment.

• The hypnotist's performance mesmerized the audience
• She was mesmerized by the flickering flames of the campfire