riveting
UK: ˈrɪvɪtɪŋ | US: ˈrɪvɪtɪŋ
adj. 1. Extremely interesting or engrossing; captivating.
adj. 2. (Literal) Pertaining to the act of fastening with rivets.
The word "riveting" derives from the verb "rivet," which originally referred to the mechanical process of fastening metal parts using rivets (from Old French "river," meaning "to clinch or fix"). Over time, "riveting" evolved metaphorically to describe something so compelling it "fastens" one's attention. The suffix "-ing" transforms it into an adjective or gerund, emphasizing ongoing action or quality.
The documentary was so riveting that I forgot to check my phone.
She gave a riveting performance that left the audience in awe.
The novel's plot twists are absolutely riveting.
His speech on climate change was riveting and thought-provoking.
The blacksmith demonstrated the riveting process with precision.