Definitions

captivate

[kap-tuh-veyt] / ˈkæp təˌveɪt /

VERB

attract, enchant

Synonyms

STRONGEST

beguile bewitch charm dazzle delight enrapture entertain enthrall fascinate gratify grip hypnotize infatuate intrigue mesmerize please seduce

STRONG

allure draw enamour enslave ensnare entrance hold hook lure magnetize spellbind take vamp win

WEAK

make a hit with rope in sweep off one's feet turn on wile

Antonyms

STRONGEST

annoy bore depress disappoint disenchant disgust displease disturb offend refuse repel tire turn off upset

STRONG

dissuade free let go liberate reject release repulse stop

WEAK

disillusion

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Jackson, 77, said she had "never doubted" the show's potential or that it would become a hit big enough to captivate audiences half a century later.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

There were TVs all over the place, playing whatever advocates could think of to try to captivate the attention of these kids.

From Slate • Feb. 2, 2026

These films, though less celebrated, underscored her ability to captivate audiences in diverse narratives.

From BBC • Dec. 28, 2025

“Nestled in prestigious Sullivan Canyon, this grand private and gated estate is a visual treasure trove, where every corner reveals a multitude of intricate details designed to captivate and inspire,” it noted.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 20, 2025

She strung humorous stories along the road like a bright wash and tried to captivate us.

From "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" by Maya Angelou

Vocabulary lists containing captivate

The Diary of a Young Girl

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The Invention of Hugo Cabret

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The Boy Who Invented TV

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!