addicting

adjective

ad·​dict·​ing ə-ˈdik-tiŋ 

: causing addiction : addictive

a

: causing a compulsive, chronic, physiological or psychological need for a habit-forming substance, behavior, or activity

Although codeine is potentially addicting, it rarely causes physical dependence when taken orally for a short time.

—Consumer Reports

b

: producing a strong inclination to do, use, or indulge in something repeatedly

This relish is typically used as a topping for bruschetta …—but I find it so addicting I can simply eat spoonfuls from a bowl.

—Francisco J. Robert

Synonyms

• addictive
• habit-forming

Examples of addicting in a Sentence

cocaine is highly addicting

Recent Examples on the Web

Babygirl is as addicting as any romance page-turner and hotter than the most popular smut on the market, with a smart twist on female desire and power. —Helen Murphy, Vulture, 18 Dec. 2024

And this strange yet addicting ridiculousness of the plot is not lost on Hainline. —Brenna Ehrlich, Rolling Stone, 19 Nov. 2024

And that in itself can become addicting for those who thrive on taking risks, Saltz said. —Alisha Ebrahimji, CNN, 2 Nov. 2024

Pulling off a difficult maneuver well is such an addicting feeling. —Alex Badia, WWD, 3 Sep. 2019

Word History

Etymology

from present participle of addict entry 2

First Known Use

1931, in the meaning defined above