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Definition of enthrall

enthrall

/ɛnˈθrɔːl/
(UK: enthral)
en · thrall
Adverb:enthrallingly
•
Adjective:enthralling
•
Past Simple:enthralled
•
Past Participle:enthralled
•
Present Participle:enthralling
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enthrall Lexical Profile

enthrall Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To capture the fascinated attention of; to charm, enchant, or hold spellbound.

Example

"The acclaimed storyteller continued to enthrall the audience with vivid tales of ancient maritime voyages."

2

To reduce to slavery or bondage; to subjugate (archaic or literary).

Example

"Ancient chronicles describe how the expanding empire sought to enthrall neighboring populations."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for enthrall

Word Nuance & Usage

Spelled "enthrall" in American English and "enthral" in British English, though both varieties double the final "l" in inflected forms such as "enthralled" and "enthralling".

• Rhymes for enthrall

• Nearby Words

entertaining
entertainingly
entertainment
enthrall
enthralling
enthrallment
enthrone

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 16th century from the prefix "en-" and the noun "thrall" (from Old Norse "þræll", meaning "slave" or "serf"), originally meaning to enslave literally before shifting to figurative captivation.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Enthrall. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/enthrall
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