captivate

/ˈkæptɪveɪt/verb

To hold someone's full attention through charm or fascination.

Example sentences

“The storyteller captivated the children for a whole hour.”
“Her voice captivated the audience from the very first song.”

Stronger than 'interest': a captivated audience cannot look away. Usually appears in the passive, 'captivated by'.

Synonyms for captivate

Antonyms

bore
repel

Find it in: Positive words.

Related words

engrossTo hold someone's attention so completely that they forget everything else.intrigueTo make someone very curious and interested to know more.carefreeFree from worries or responsibilities; relaxed and untroubled.candorHonest, open, and direct speech or behavior.candidHonest and direct, even when the truth is uncomfortable.catharticHelping to release built-up emotions, especially after something overwhelming.