engagement
UK: ɪnˈɡeɪdʒmənt | US: ɪnˈɡeɪdʒmənt
n. a formal agreement to get married
n. the act of engaging or being engaged in an activity
n. a period of employment or participation
n. (military) a battle or conflict
The word "engagement" originates from Old French engagier (to pledge or bind), derived from en- (in) + gage (a pledge, from Germanic wadja). The suffix -ment was added to form a noun denoting the state or action of being bound (e.g., to a promise, activity, or conflict). Over time, it expanded from literal pledges (like marriage) to metaphorical involvement (e.g., in work or battle).
Their engagement was announced at a family gathering.
The teacher praised the students' active engagement in the discussion.
He signed a two-year engagement with the theater company.
The army reported several engagements along the border.
Social media boosts customer engagement with brands.