Hooked: meaning, definitions and examples

Formal or informal context to describe catching someone’s interest and keeping them engaged. Often used with entertainment or activities.

• After reading the first chapter, I was totally hooked on the book
• Kids nowadays are hooked on video games

Used to describe a compulsive need for or dependence on a substance or activity, often with negative connotations related to health or well-being.

• He's addicted to smoking and can't quit despite multiple attempts
• She became addicted to painkillers after her surgery

Used when someone is overly preoccupied with something, often to an unhealthy degree, and is commonly used in both formal and informal settings.

• She is obsessed with her appearance and spends hours in front of the mirror
• He is obsessed with collecting rare coins

Used in both formal and informal contexts to describe a reliance on something for functioning, which can be positive or negative.

• Some people are dependent on caffeine to start their day
• He is financially dependent on his parents while studying at university

Informal term often used to describe strong addiction or intense interest in something, sometimes with a negative connotation.

• After the first episode, I was completely hooked on that series.
• He's hooked on video games and spends hours playing every day.

Indicates a strong interest or attraction to something, usually because it is unusual or intriguing.

• The children were fascinated by the strange insects they found in the garden.
• She's always been fascinated by ancient civilizations.

Used to describe being charmed or attracted by something, usually in a positive and enchanting way.

• The audience was captivated by the magician's performance.
• She was captivated by the breathtaking view.

Describes being fully absorbed in something, often to the point of ignoring everything else around.

• He was so engrossed in his book that he didn't hear the phone ring.
• They were engrossed in their conversation and didn't notice the time.