Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Enthralling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🤩
Add to dictionary

enthralling

[ɪnˈθrɔːlɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

describing a captivating experience

Capturing the attention and interest of someone in a fascinating or absorbing way.

Synonyms

absorbing, captivating, engrossing, fascinating, spellbinding.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
enthralling

This is typically used for something that completely grabs and holds your attention because it is extraordinarily interesting or exciting.

  • The performance was absolutely enthralling.
  • She told an enthralling story about her adventures.
captivating

Use this word for something that is charming or appealing and makes it difficult to look away.

  • Her captivating smile won everyone over.
  • The movie was captivating from start to finish.
spellbinding

This word is often used for something that is so enchanting or magical that it seems to cast a spell over you.

  • The magician's spellbinding performance left the audience in awe.
  • The novel's spellbinding narrative kept readers hooked till the last page.
engrossing

This word fits situations where you are fully focused and not distracted because it's so compelling.

  • She found the puzzle engrossing and worked on it for hours.
  • His engrossing lecture kept the students attentive.
fascinating

This is used when something is extremely interesting or delightful, arousing your curiosity and admiration.

  • The documentary about marine life was fascinating.
  • Her stories about traveling to different countries are fascinating.
absorbing

This word is best suited for something that deeply engages your mind so that you lose track of time.

  • He found the book so absorbing that he couldn't put it down.
  • An absorbing conversation kept them entertained for hours.

Examples of usage

  • Her enthralling performance left the audience spellbound.
  • The enthralling plot kept me on the edge of my seat.
  • The enthralling beauty of the landscape took my breath away.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Many classic novels, like 'Moby Dick,' are described as enthralling for their intricate plots and deep themes.
  • Authors often aim to create enthralling characters, drawing readers into their worlds and experiences.
  • Poets, such as Robert Frost, have used rhythmic and vivid language to craft works that keep readers entranced.

Psychology

  • Engagement in activities defined as enthralling can lead to a state of flow, where time seems to disappear.
  • Studies suggest that storytelling captures attention because it activates emotional and cognitive responses, making it enthralling.
  • Being enthralled can also trigger dopamine release in the brain, enhancing feelings of pleasure and reward.

Entertainment

  • Films with gripping plots, like 'Inception' and 'The Shawshank Redemption,' are often called enthralling due to their ability to engage viewers deeply.
  • Live performances, such as theater or concerts, can create an enthralling experience by drawing the audience into the moment.
  • Video games often employ enthralling narratives and immersive gameplay to hook players for hours on end.

Cultural Impact

  • Enthralling cultural experiences, such as festivals, can attract visitors and strengthen community bonds.
  • Art exhibitions displaying captivating works can leave audiences enthralled, inspiring further exploration of the artworks.
  • Documentaries that reveal hidden truths about nature or history often enthrall viewers by presenting compelling storytelling through visuals.

Origin of 'enthralling'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English 'thral,' meaning slave, which implies being captivated or held in a spell.
  • Originally, 'enthrall' was used to describe someone being made a thrall or servant, later evolving to signify being captivated.
  • The prefix 'en-' means to cause to be, enhancing the idea of becoming engrossed.

The word 'enthralling' originates from the verb 'enthrall', which comes from the Middle English word 'thrall' meaning 'a slave'. Over time, 'enthralling' evolved to describe something captivating or enchanting, holding someone's attention as if they were under a spell. The term is commonly used to describe experiences or performances that are deeply captivating and engaging.

See also: enthralled, enthrallment.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,912 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.