Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Completely absorbed or intensely focused on something: "Engrossed" describes a state where one's full attention and interest are captured by an activity, object, or thought, to the exclusion of other things.
   • (Archaic/Legal) Written formally in a large, clear script: In historical or legal contexts, it refers to a document, such as a deed, that has been formally and carefully written out.

Usage Examples

• Adjective (Fully absorbed):
  • She was so engrossed in her book that she didn't hear the doorbell.
  • The children were engrossed in building a sandcastle.
• Adjective (Formally written - archaic):
  • The final, engrossed copy of the treaty was ready for signing.

Advanced Usage

• "to be engrossed in something": This is the standard construction to indicate deep absorption.
  • He was completely engrossed in solving the complex puzzle.
• "engrossed with/by": Sometimes used interchangeably with "in," though "in" is more common for activities.
  • The audience was engrossed by the magician's performance.

Variants and Related Words

• Engross (verb): To absorb all the attention or interest of someone.
  • The mystery novel engrossed him for hours.
• Engrossing (adjective): Capable of absorbing one's complete attention; fascinating.
  • It was an engrossing documentary about deep-sea exploration.

Synonyms

• Absorbed: Having one's attention fully engaged.
• Rapt: Completely fascinated or absorbed.
• Intent: Showing earnest and eager attention.
• Preoccupied: Dominated or engrossed by thought.
• Spellbound: Held as if by a spell; fascinated.

Antonyms

• Distracted: Unable to concentrate because one's mind is preoccupied.
• Inattentive: Not paying attention.
• Uninterested: Not interested in or concerned about something.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• Lost in thought: So absorbed in thinking that one is unaware of surroundings. This is a close conceptual cousin to being engrossed.
  • She sat by the window, lost in thought.
• Hang on someone's every word: To listen to someone with total attention, similar to being engrossed in what they are saying.
  • The students hung on the professor's every word during the fascinating lecture.

Adjective

1. written formally in a large clear script, as a deed or other legal document
2. giving or marked by complete attention to
   • that engrossed look or rapt delight
   • then wrapped in dreams
   • so intent on this fantastic...narrative that she hardly stirred- Walter de la Mare
   • rapt with wonder
   • wrapped in thought