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Definition of gripping

gripping

/ˈɡrɪp.ɪŋ/
grip · ping
Adverb:grippingly
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gripping Lexical Profile

gripping Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Firmly holding the attention or interest; exciting and deeply engaging.

Example

"The director's new documentary is a gripping account of the first expedition to the South Pole."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for gripping

• Nearby Words

grip
gripe
gripper
gripping
grippingly
grippy
griptape

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the verb 'grip' (from Old English 'gripe', meaning to grasp or clutch) and the participial suffix '-ing'. Its figurative use to describe captivating narratives emerged in the late 19th century.

Cite this Entry

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