as in appealing
having an often mysterious or magical power to attract
a captivating performance by the young singing sensation
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
as in fascinating
to attract or delight as if by magic
the clown captivated the toddlers with his balloon tricks
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of captivating
Richard Mille Contributor,
Forbes.com,
25 June 2026
This one-and-done approach is why several hotels have embraced the style, transforming a lackluster temporary stay into a captivating design moment, with the addition of one particular element.
—
Kate McGregor,
Architectural Digest,
25 June 2026
Ryan Lattanzio,
IndieWire,
16 June 2026
An inspiring day filled with delicious food, captivating live entertainment, special guests, and the warmth of community spirit.
—
Anna Alejo,
CBS News,
16 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for captivating
Adjective
Varying in size and shade, the gemstones create a captivating display of luminous colour across the surface as the watch moves through the light.
—
Richard Mille Contributor,
Forbes.com,
25 June 2026
This one-and-done approach is why several hotels have embraced the style, transforming a lackluster temporary stay into a captivating design moment, with the addition of one particular element.
—
Kate McGregor,
Architectural Digest,
25 June 2026
Verb
Another weekend of superb film programming, captivating panels, John Waters appearances, and even a clambake is in the books for the annual Provincetown International Film Festival.
—
Ryan Lattanzio,
IndieWire,
16 June 2026
An inspiring day filled with delicious food, captivating live entertainment, special guests, and the warmth of community spirit.
—
Anna Alejo,
CBS News,
16 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for captivating
Recent Examples of Synonyms for captivating
Adjective
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The Heat has been in a holding pattern of sorts the past two days, waiting to see if an appealing free agent takes a minimum deal or an appealing player under contract shakes free.
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To me, a road trip is still one of the most appealing ways of exploring the USA.
Verb
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Wilentz, author of the 2010 book Dylan in America, wrote Volume 18‘s detailed, often fascinating 125-page liner notes that provides historical context for the expansive eight-CD set.
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Once on the ground visitors can enjoy Greenland’s rugged coastal landscapes, fascinating indigenous Inuit culture, and the opportunity to experience the country at its primordial best.
Adjective
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With bright feathers that look painted on, colorful birds are typically pretty and charismatic poster species for conservation.
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In 2025's Marty Supreme, the New York native took on the role of the charismatic hustler Marty Mauser.
Verb
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The doe-eyed spa manager, Anupam Banerjee, has come up with a wide range of enticing holistic treatments, from scrubs, massages, and facials; to biohacking PEMF body mats and LED masks; to Ayurvedic therapies; to breath work and meditation.
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The scrutiny belies the fact that the Reflecting Pool has always been enticing to visitors.
Adjective
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On paper, Minnesota seems like an attractive destination for the 41-year-old.
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But Minetree cannot fix the inherent brokenness of a series determined to make its conventionally attractive, straight, rich white protagonist the most discriminated against kid in the cafeteria.
Verb
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The rolling meadows, forests, and enchanting Monet gardens form an artistic canvas that complements the hotel’s interiors.
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The rookie showman is proving his mettle as part of the Caballero Circus, a five-generation family of performers, by enchanting audiences with his charismatic stage presence and sharp coordination.
Adjective
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Places like the Dolomites in Italy are especially well suited to private active travel, with charming lodges too small for large tour groups.
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Apparently, mom Donna was meant to go on a date with another guy when Ed saw her, hit her with a not-so-cool-yet-charming pickup line, scooped her and the rest was history.
Adjective
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In an act of pure showmanship, Bolton has placed mannequins clothed in fleshlike skintight garments in a tall glass vitrine visible to museumgoers heading toward the medieval wing—a seductive preview that may help lure them away from Arms and Armor.
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For a destination so beloved for its beachfront exploits, a city center hotel that’s a car ride away from the sand may not seem immediately seductive.
Cite this Entry
“Captivating.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/captivating. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
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