engross

[ en-grohs ]

verb (used with object)

1. to occupy completely, as the mind or attention; absorb:

   Their discussion engrossed his attention.

   She is engrossed in her work.

   Synonyms: engage, immerse, involve

2. to write or copy in a clear, attractive, large script or in a formal manner, as a public document or record:

   to engross a deed.

3. to acquire the whole of (a commodity), in order to control the market; monopolize.

engross

/ ɪnˈɡrəʊsɪdlɪ; ɪnˈɡrəʊs /

verb

1. to occupy one's attention completely; absorb
2. to write or copy (manuscript) in large legible handwriting
3. law to write or type out formally (a deed, agreement, or other document) preparatory to execution
4. another word for corner

Derived Forms

• engrossedly, adverb
• enˈgrosser, noun
• enˈgrossed, adjective

Other Words From

• en·gross·er noun
• re·en·gross verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of engross¹

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English engros(s)en “to gather in large quantities, draft (a will, etc.) in final form,” from Anglo-French engrosser, partly from Medieval Latin ingrossāre “to thicken, write large and thick” ( Latin in- in- ² + gross(us) “thick” + -āre infinitive suffix); partly from Anglo-French, Middle French en gros “in quantity, wholesale,” from Latin in + grossus; gross

Word History and Origins

Origin of engross¹

C14 (in the sense: to buy up wholesale): from Old French en gros in quantity; C15 (in the sense: to write in large letters): probably from Medieval Latin ingrossāre; both from Latin grossus thick, gross

Example Sentences

And I wanted to engross the actors and the audience in what she’s saying and feeling, so we can be there with her and feel it too.”

From Los Angeles Times

Whatever their inspirations, Neuman’s pictures are visual machines that both engross and propel the viewer’s eye.

From Washington Post

Narratives of injury engross us because they point to tangible harms — blindings and burns and broken bones.

From New York Times

In a statement Wednesday, Conway wrote, “I’d made a career out of calling things as I saw them, with no notes in front of me and no net beneath me. I brought that same approach to this book, which should engage, engross and entertain plenty of people.”

From Washington Times

In a statement Wednesday, Conway wrote, “I’d made a career out of calling things as I saw them, with no notes in front of me and no net beneath me. I brought that same approach to this book, which should engage, engross and entertain plenty of people.”

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• bewitch
• captivate
• enrapture
• enthrall
• fascinate
• immerse
• preoccupy