riveting

adjective

riv·​et·​ing ˈri-və-tiŋ How to pronounce riveting (audio)
: having the power to fix the attention : engrossing, fascinating
a riveting story
rivetingly adverb

Examples of riveting in a Sentence

a riveting explanation of light waves that fascinated the class
Recent Examples on the Web While known for his riveting performance as serial killer Larry Hall in Black Bird, Hauser has also appeared in numerous comedic television shows, including Cobra Kai, The Afterparty, and Bupkis. EW.com, 13 June 2024 In his second outing, Little Marvin seamlessly intertwines family history, procedural elements, and the seeds of both horror and crime thrillers to pay homage to genre favorites — all while creating something riveting and refreshing. Proma Khosla, IndieWire, 13 June 2024 This is a rich, smart, riveting movie that’s extra-interesting given what the Oakland franchise is going through in 2024. Brian Tallerico, Vulture, 7 June 2024 This is a riveting account of the almost 50 years of battles between the Comanche Tribe and the United States. Adam Bell, Charlotte Observer, 5 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for riveting 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'riveting.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1677, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of riveting was in 1677

Dictionary Entries Near riveting

Cite this Entry

“Riveting.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/riveting. Accessed 4 Jul. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on riveting

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!