captivation

noun

Definition of captivationnext
as in appeal
the power of irresistible attraction by some mysterious method of captivation, the therapist is able to evoke a response from even the shiest of children

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of captivation The works on display depict his intricate captivation with the relationship between humankind and nature. — Tianwei Zhang, Footwear News, 18 Sep. 2026 Ultimately, Fonda opened up to dating Turner, and their relationship became a point of captivation for the media, as the liberal Hollywood star and the conservative, audacious businessman appeared to be total opposites. — Rachel Raposas, PEOPLE, 6 May 2026 Wembanyama’s captivation with the intricacies of space travel was apparent. — Jared Weiss, New York Times, 2 Oct. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for captivation
  1. appeal
  2. attractiveness
  3. fascination
  4. charm
  5. attraction
  6. seductiveness
  7. sweetness
Noun
  • Stories about the British Royal Family have enduring international appeal.
    — Max Goldbart, Deadline, 7 Oct. 2026
  • Just suffice it to say that both of their projects have broad cross-generational appeal, although Dean’s timeless grooves might be more squarely in the pocket for older voters, whereas Rodrigo has a dad-rock factor going for her.
    — Chris Willman, Variety, 7 Oct. 2026
Definition of appeal
Noun
  • On the other hand, higher Fed rates typically bolster the attractiveness of dollar assets, exerting depreciation pressure on local currencies.
    — , CNBC, 17 Sep. 2026
  • The rankings were based on student outcomes, learning environment and attractiveness.
    — Finch Walker, USA Today, 1 Sep. 2026
Definition of attractiveness
Noun
  • Millet’s 2022 novel Dinosaurs also reflects her fascination with long extinct creatures.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 6 Oct. 2026
  • Howard said there is still a fascination with FDR more than 80 years after his death.
    — John Ramos, CBS News, 6 Oct. 2026
Definition of fascination
Noun
  • Even on busy weekends, the staff are perfectly primed to welcome guests with Southern charm and efficiency.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Oct. 2026
  • It’s paired with Frame’s signature Ritz Cigarette, a low-rise, slim silhouette in a dark indigo wash, finished with pocket embroidery and a removable gold charm keepsake chain featuring hotel emblems.
    — Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 7 Oct. 2026
Definition of charm
Noun
  • The Ritz-Carlton Orlando is a true luxury resort that's located near all the key area attractions.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026
  • Final Thoughts The Soundcore Nebula P1's obvious attraction is its sound system.
    — M. David Stone, PC Magazine, 4 Oct. 2026
Definition of attraction
Noun
  • So, too, do the antics of his estate manager (a buoyant Sam Adegoke), always concocting money-making schemes, and the wide-eyed adoration of the girl next door (Amelia Mason, deftly balancing naïveté with seductiveness), who wants to save him.
    — Rhoda Feng, New Yorker, 4 Sep. 2026
  • That’s the seductiveness of the Reflecting Pool.
    — Alexandra Petri, The Atlantic, 25 June 2026
Definition of seductiveness
Noun
  • Like an old-school celery soda without the cloying sweetness.
    — Alaina Chou, Bon Appetit Magazine, 1 Oct. 2026
  • Steelhead trout, a member of the salmon family, was soft with a hint of sweetness and paired beautifully with the green beans and onion.
    — Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 30 Sep. 2026
Definition of sweetness

Browse Nearby Words

captivating
captivation
captivator
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Cite this Entry

“Captivation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/captivation. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

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