fascinate
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈfæs.ɪ.neɪt/
KK: /ˈfæsnˌeɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To be very interesting or to attract someone's attention strongly.
Example
The story of the ancient civilization fascinates many historians.
Tense Forms
Past: fascinated
Past Participle: fascinated
Conversation
I went to the science museum yesterday, and it was fascinate!
Oh, really? What did you see there?
They had this exhibit on space that just fascinate me completely.
That sounds amazing! I love anything related to space.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
captivate
enthrall
intrigue
Antonyms
bore
repel
disgust
transitive verb
Definition
To attract and hold someone's attention very strongly, making them very interested or curious.
Example
The documentary about space travel fascinated the students.
Tense Forms
Past: fascinated
Past Participle: fascinated
Conversation
Did you see that documentary about space?
Yes, it really fascinated me!
I know, right? The way they explained black holes was mind-blowing.
Root Explanation
Fascinate → It is formed from "fascinare" (meaning to enchant or bewitch) and the suffix "-ate" (indicating to make or cause). The word "fascinate" means to cause someone to be enchanted or captivated by something.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'enchanted' or 'bewitched' by something — that's why fascinate means to captivate someone's attention.
Visually Confused Words
unfascinate
refascinate
unfascinated
fasinite
unfasciated
fractionate