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

Sucrose is the type of sugar labeled as bad or addicting. —Monica Cull, Discover Magazine, 18 Sep. 2024

There are also various other factions around town, whose sale of Drops — the drug of choice in Gotham — as well as the promise of a new, more addicting drug, spell trouble. —Bill Goodykoontz, The Arizona Republic, 17 Sep. 2024

Its burritos are arguably addicting, as evidenced by the many regulars who line up outside the truck, which posts up at a gas station off Six Forks. —Zachery Eanes, Axios, 6 Sep. 2024

Experts say ketamine isn’t physically addicting the way an opioid drug can be. —Brenda Goodman, CNN, 17 Aug. 2024

Word History

Etymology

from present participle of addict entry 2

First Known Use

1931, in the meaning defined above