captivate
UK: ˈkæptɪveɪt | US: ˈkæptɪveɪt
vt. to attract and hold the attention or interest of someone, as if by magic
vt. to charm or enchant someone deeply
captivate = capt<take/seize> + iv<adjective suffix> + ate<verb suffix>
- capt (from Latin capere, meaning "to take or seize")
- iv (a suffix forming adjectives, often indicating a relationship or tendency)
- ate (a verb suffix indicating action or process)
Etymology Origin:
The word "captivate" traces back to the Latin captivare, derived from captivus (captive). The root capt reflects the idea of seizing or taking control, which evolved metaphorically to mean "capturing attention or fascination." Over time, the suffix -ate transformed it into a verb, emphasizing the act of enchanting or enthralling someone—as if their attention were "taken captive."
The magician's performance captivated the entire audience.
Her storytelling skills captivate even the most restless children.
The novel's plot is so gripping that it captivates readers from the first page.
The artist's use of color captivates viewers, drawing them into the painting.
His passionate speech captivated the crowd, leaving them in awe.