riveting

adjective

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

Synonyms of riveting

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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.
Congratulations to every team and to #FIFA for a truly riveting tournament from start to finish. — Meg Walters, InStyle, 21 July 2026 There are also some strong sequences in the climax to Nolan’s Batman trilogy — such as the riveting plane hijacking opener, and Bruce’s trial in The Pit. — James Hibberd, HollywoodReporter, 16 July 2026 At her new school, Weaver found that handling sheet metal was, well … riveting. — Bill Chappell, NPR, 9 July 2026 This season’s new fiction and nonfiction illuminate our manic world while offering riveting escapes. — Hamilton Cain, Time, 7 July 2026 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

Rhymes for riveting

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Browse Nearby Words

rivet hole
riveting
riveting die
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Cite this Entry

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

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More from Merriam-Webster on riveting

Nglish: Translation of riveting for Spanish Speakers

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