adj
Common
engaging
ihn-GAYD-zhihng
Engaging (adj) means holding someone's attention or interest; charming. Example: “My neighbour is such an engaging speaker that nobody wanted her talk to end.”
adj
1
Holding someone's attention or interest; charming.
"My neighbour is such an engaging speaker that nobody wanted her talk to end."
"The professor had an engaging way of explaining complex ideas."
"It was an engaging novel from start to finish."
How to use engaging
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishInteresting and attention-grabbing, in a pleasant way.
Common pairings
engaging story
engaging personality
highly engaging
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Word forms
- Plural
- engagings
- Comparative
- more engaging
- Superlative
- most engaging
Fill the gap
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My neighbour is such an _____ speaker that nobody wanted her talk to end.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for engaging
aging
raging
paging
imaging
staging
damaging
managing
foraging
packaging
rummaging
massaging
averaging
See all rhymes for engaging →
Frequently asked questions
What does “engaging” mean?
The word “engaging” means holding someone's attention or interest; charming. In plain terms, interesting and attention-grabbing, in a pleasant way.
How do you pronounce “engaging”?
“Engaging” is pronounced ihn-GAYD-zhihng (/ɪnˈɡeɪd͡ʒɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “engaging” in a sentence?
Here is “engaging” used in a sentence: “The professor had an engaging way of explaining complex ideas.”
What is the opposite of “engaging”?
The opposite of “engaging” — its antonyms — are boring, dull, unengaging, uninteresting and boorish.
What part of speech is “engaging”?
“Engaging” is an adjective.
Is “engaging” a common word?
“Engaging” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between "engaging" and "engrossing"?
"Engaging" means holding your attention and being charming or pleasant, while "engrossing" is stronger and means completely absorbing, so that you lose track of everything else. An engaging conversation is enjoyable; an engrossing book makes you forget the time.
What is the difference between "engaging" and "charming"?
"Charming" focuses on being delightful and pleasant in a way that attracts people, while "engaging" adds the sense of actively holding someone's attention or interest. A person can be both, but "engaging" emphasizes drawing you in rather than simply being agreeable.
When would you describe a person as "engaging"?
You describe a person as "engaging" when they hold your attention and interest and come across as charming and pleasant to be around. It is a compliment often used for speakers, teachers, and hosts who make interactions enjoyable.
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