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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.

It may not be for everyone, but dome-based entertainment clearly has the power to captivate some.

From BBC • Mar. 30, 2026

Marked by its stark staging and ritualistic intensity, the work remains one of the most enduring interpretations of Ravel's best-known work and continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

From Barron's • Feb. 25, 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

“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

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.