Definition

The act of attracting and holding someone's attention or interest completely.

Example

The magician's performance was full of captivation, leaving the audience in awe.

Conversation

I was completely lost in the movie's captivation from start to finish.

Really? I thought it would be boring at first.

No way! The story had such a strong captivation that I was hooked.

I guess I need to give it another chance then!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Captivation is formed from "captivus" (meaning taken or captured) and the suffix "-ation" (indicating the action or process of). The word refers to the process of being taken or captured by something, often in a figurative sense, such as being captivated by beauty or charm.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'taken' ('captivus') by something that holds your attention — that's why captivation means being enchanted or charmed.

Visually Confused Words