addicting

adjective

ad·​dict·​ing ə-ˈdik-tiŋ How to pronounce addicting (audio)
Synonyms of addictingnext
: 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 of addicting

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Examples of addicting in a Sentence

cocaine is highly addicting
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That outro is just too addicting; fans aren’t going to quit listening on repeat for a long, long time. — Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 12 Aug. 2025 Crunchy and creamy, tangy and briny, this dill pickle dip is an addicting concoction that will be welcome at any gathering. — Jenna Sims, Southern Living, 1 July 2026 With ornate window displays and high towers, the busy street comes to life and gives you a taste of the buzz that makes NYC so addicting. — Charlie Hobbs, Condé Nast Traveler, 24 Feb. 2025 Young and Johnson are addicting to watch, crafting a sibling dynamic that feels honest, volatile, loving, and frighteningly fragile all at once. — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 13 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for addicting

Word History

Etymology

from present participle of addict entry 2

First Known Use

1931, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of addicting was in 1931

Rhymes for addicting

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Browse Nearby Words

addicted
addicting
addiction
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Cite this Entry

“Addicting.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/addicting. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on addicting

Nglish: Translation of addicting for Spanish Speakers

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