riveting

adjective

riv·​et·​ing ˈri-və-tiŋ How to pronounce riveting (audio)
Synonyms of rivetingnext
: 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
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.
The trailer is riveting and unsettling – just as the celibate Shakers were to the average observer during their American emergence in the 1780s. Christian Goodwillie, The Conversation, 22 Dec. 2025 Among the gruesome and terrifying images that circulated online, the videos captured a riveting moment when an unarmed civilian tackled one of the gunmen and seized what appeared to be a rifle. Kathryn Palmer, USA Today, 15 Dec. 2025 Equally commanding was Tessa Thompson’s riveting performance in Hedda (directed by Nia DaCosta), which earned her a deserved Golden Globe nomination. Okla Jones, Essence, 9 Dec. 2025 In the hands of this skillful writer, those facts become a riveting, surprising tale of a heroic, passionate and intelligent woman. The Know, Denver Post, 7 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for riveting

Word History

First Known Use

1677, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of riveting was in 1677

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Riveting.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/riveting. Accessed 1 Jan. 2026.

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