engagement

[ en-geyj-muhnt ]

noun

1. the act of engaging or the state of being engaged; involvement: The website failed because of weak visitor engagement.

   Voter engagement and turnout were high.

   The website failed because of weak visitor engagement.

2. an appointment or arrangement:

   a business engagement.

3. betrothal:

   They announced their engagement.

4. a pledge; an obligation or agreement:

   All his time seems to be taken up with social engagements.

   Synonyms: promise, contract

5. employment, or a period or post of employment, especially in the performing arts:

   Her engagement at the nightclub will last five weeks.

6. an encounter, conflict, or battle:

   We have had two very costly engagements with the enemy this week alone.

7. Mechanics. the act or state of interlocking.
8. engagements, Commerce. financial obligations.

engagement

/ ɪnˈɡeɪdʒmənt /

noun

1. a pledge of marriage; betrothal
2. an appointment or arrangement, esp for business or social purposes
3. the act of engaging or condition of being engaged
4. a promise, obligation, or other condition that binds
5. a period of employment, esp a limited period
6. an action; battle
7. plural financial obligations

Other Word Forms

• nonen·gagement noun
• reen·gagement noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of engagement¹

First recorded in 1615–25; engage + -ment

Example Sentences

They have largely shifted from sites of critical reflection, mutual engagement and vibrant debate into spaces that emphasize entertainment above all else.

From Salon

Ms Hobhouse's treatment is likely to raise further questions about the government's engagement with China.

From BBC

There were enthusiastic crowds in Ravenna to see the royal couple on the final engagement of the trip, where they attended a festival celebrating local food.

From BBC

These remain largely experimental or hypothetical, but represent an instructive ideal we can keep in mind when considering other forms of public engagement and how they might be improved.

From Salon

The two teenagers were eventually referred to Kick it Out's fan education and engagement manager Alan Bush.

From BBC

Related Words

• appointment
• arrangement
• commitment
• gig