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engross Definition

en·gross (en grōs′, in-)

transitive verb

    1. to write out in large letters of a kind once used for legal documents
    2. to make a final fair copy of (esp. a legislative bill)
  2. to express formally or in legal form
  3. to take the entire attention of; occupy wholly; absorb engrossed in a book
  4. Archaic
    1. to buy all of so as to monopolize
    2. to take or require all of

Etymology: ME engrossen < OFr engrosser, to acquire in large quantity (< en-, in + gros, large < L grossus) & engroissier, to become thick < en- + groisse, thickness < VL *grossia < L grossus: see gross

engross Related Forms
en·gross′er noun en·gross′·ment noun
engross Synonyms

engross

v.

preoccupy, engage, immerse; see fascinate, monopolize, occupy 3.

engross Law Definition

v

Archaic

To prepare a document, such as a deed or a legislative bill, for execution or passage. 
engross Usage Examples

Object

  • tale: With Bell setting a crisp pace, baritone soloist Nathan Berg helped the orchestra and chorus spin an engrossing tale.
  • story: Herein Eric Brown confirms his talent, his ability to tell an engrossing story.
  • novel: The characters are real, the action fast, and the sum a brilliant and engrossing novel.
  • read: Comments from the South Leicestershire College Reading Circle: An engrossing read, which makes the period come alive, despite the unusual ending.
  • film: Children will find plenty to enjoy in this engrossing fantasy film.
  • book: For me, it was probably the most engrossing book I have ever read.

Preposition: with

  • playdough: SB spent the rest of the afternoon engrossed with playdough, making a farmyard and a complicated story to go with it.

Preposition: for

  • hour: An excellent program; if you haven't seen it, take a look - it will have you engrossed for hours!

Modifying Another Word

  • utterly: Lizzie finds it utterly engrossing, constantly asking questions.
  • totally: They look engrossed totally in what they are doing.
  • thoroughly: Everyone was thoroughly engrossed in not looking like they were watching.
  • deeply: Each reader is deeply engrossed in a science fiction novel.
  • wholly: The show features five very different short stories - hugely romantic, warm and wholly engrossing.
  • completely: Once I start drawing the first lines of my sketches I become completely engrossed in my subject.

Preposition: in

  • conversation: But having chosen a seat, the person next to him seems too engrossed in conversation to even say " hi " .
  • task: The sun beats hot on the group of women who are engrossed in the task of making bricks.
  • story: Readers will truly empathize with the main character and will be totally engrossed in the story from the very first line.
  • game: In a moment they were both engrossed in a game of hearts.
  • book: I would love to think of you sitting there, engrossed in a book.
  • activity: Being engrossed in outside activity uses experience to the full.