engaged

American  

[en-geyjd] / ɛnˈgeɪdʒd /

adjective

1. busy or occupied; involved.

   deeply engaged in conversation.

2. pledged to be married; betrothed.

   an engaged couple.

3. under engagement; pledged.

   an engaged contractor.

4. entered into conflict with.

   desperately engaged armies.

5. Mechanics.

   1. interlocked.

   2. (of wheels) in gear with each other.

6. Architecture. (of a distinct member) built so as to be truly or seemingly attached in part to the structure before which it stands.

   an engaged column.

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engaged British  

/ ɪnˈɡeɪdʒɪdlɪ, ɪnˈɡeɪdʒd /

adjective

1. pledged to be married; betrothed

2. employed, occupied, or busy

3. architect built against or attached to a wall or similar structure

   an engaged column

4. (of a telephone line) already in use

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Other Word Forms

• engagedly adverb
• engagedness noun
• unengaged adjective

Etymology

Origin of engaged

First recorded in 1605–15; engage + -ed ²

Example Sentences

Julian Pavia, Weir’s longtime editor at Ballantine, described the author as a “genuine science-fiction writer” engaged in actual problem solving.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

Donohoe, of the World Bank, said the lender was "well positioned to assist countries in their economic response" and was engaged in "intense" talks with member states.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

They were engaged shortly thereafter, followed by an intimate wedding at her mother’s estate in Southampton.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 31, 2026

In other words, Chiles may be engaged in “expression,” but that expression is a medical treatment that Colorado has every right to regulate.

From Slate • Mar. 31, 2026

During that same summer of the Americans’ annihilation by the Soviets, Bobby Fischer, now twelve, was engaged in his own battles on the board, playing in a tournament in Greenwich Village.

From "Endgame" by Frank Brady

Related Words

• absorbed
• committed
• employed
• engrossed
• interested
• involved
• occupied
• preoccupied
• working