Riveting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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riveting

[ˈrɪvɪtɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

movie review

Captivating or engrossing, holding one's attention completely. Usually used to describe a film, book, or performance that is extremely interesting or exciting.

Synonyms

captivating, compelling, engrossing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
riveting	Use 'riveting' for something exceptionally interesting or exciting that holds your attention fully, often in the context of stories, performances, or speeches. The movie was so riveting that I couldn't look away from the screen. Her speech was riveting, and the audience was completely absorbed.
captivating	Describe something that captures your attention and imagination strongly, often with a sense of beauty or enchantment. It is often used for things that are charming or enchanting. The artwork was captivating, drawing the viewers into its delicate details. His captivating smile made everyone in the room feel at ease.
engrossing	Something that is so interesting that it occupies your whole attention. It is most often used for activities, books, or tasks that you can spend a lot of time on without realizing it. The novel was so engrossing that I read it in one sitting. Painting is an engrossing hobby that lets me forget about the world.
compelling	Use this word for something that evokes a strong desire or interest, often because it is convincing or forceful. It can be a situation, argument, or narrative that you can't easily ignore. The prosecutor presented a compelling argument that left little room for doubt. She has a compelling presence on stage that keeps the audience engaged.

Examples of usage

The movie was so riveting that I couldn't look away for a second.
Her riveting performance in the play left the audience in awe.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

construction industry

To fasten or fix firmly in place. Often used in the context of joining metal plates or components together using rivets.

Synonyms

fasten, fix, secure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
riveting	Usually used metaphorically to describe something that is extremely interesting or exciting. The movie was so riveting, I couldn’t take my eyes off the screen. Her presentation was riveting; everyone was on the edge of their seats.
fasten	Commonly used when talking about securing or attaching something physically. Please fasten your seatbelt before the plane takes off. He fastened the buttons on his coat before stepping outside.
fix	Used when talking about repairing something broken or damaged, or to establish something in a place. I need to fix the leaky faucet in the kitchen. She fixed the picture frame to the wall with nails.
secure	Applies when ensuring an object is safe and stable, or to make something free from danger. Secure the load with straps to prevent it from moving. She managed to secure a good job after graduation.

Examples of usage

The workers riveted the steel beams together to create a sturdy frame.
The ship's hull was riveted with precision to ensure its strength.

Translations

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

Origin of 'riveting'

The word 'riveting' originated from the Middle English word 'ryvettyn', which means 'to clinch a nail'. The term evolved from the Old French word 'riveter', which has the same meaning. The concept of riveting has been used in metalworking and construction for centuries to join metal components securely. Over time, 'riveting' has also come to be associated with captivating or enthralling experiences, reflecting the idea of something being fastened or fixed firmly in one's attention.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,645, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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21642 imprison
21643 matting
21644 towered
21645 riveting
21646 moody
21647 listless
21648 palatal
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