Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/ɪnˈɡrəʊs/ (UK), /ɪnˈɡroʊs/ (US)

Definitions

• To occupy the complete attention or mind of someone; to absorb fully.
• To take something entirely for oneself, especially when buying goods in bulk or controlling a market.
• To acquire or gain possession of something, especially in large amounts.

Usage Examples

• She was so *engrossed* in the novel that she didn't notice the time passing.
• The company managed to *engross* the entire market with its innovative product.
• His work tends to *engross* him, making it difficult to maintain a work-life balance.

Etymology

The word *engross* comes from Middle English *engrossen*, meaning “to copy in a large hand,” or “to make a copy of something in large writing.” It stems from the Old French *engrosser* (to increase in quantity, or to amass), which itself originates from the Latin *grossus*, meaning “large, thick.” Over time, its meaning expanded to include the idea of absorbing or taking something in full.

Synonyms

• Absorb
• Captivate
• Preoccupy
• Engage
• Rivet

Antonyms

• Disengage
• Distract
• Unfocus
• Neglect

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

Pronunciation can vary slightly by region. In American English, the first syllable of *engross* is often pronounced with a more pronounced "o" sound, while in British English, the "o" sound may be shorter or more neutral. Regional accents may also influence the stress pattern, with some areas stressing the first syllable more heavily than the second.

Historical Usage

The verb *engross* has been in use since the Middle Ages, originally meaning to "make large or bulk up" something, typically referring to the act of acquiring property or goods. Over time, its meaning shifted to reflect the idea of engrossing someone's attention or focus, commonly used in legal and financial contexts during the 17th and 18th centuries. It has also been historically applied to market manipulation, where merchants would *engross* goods to control the supply and increase prices.

Cultural Nuances

The concept of being *engrossed* in something is commonly understood across cultures as a deep focus or preoccupation. In many cultures, the idea of being absorbed or *engrossed* by work, study, or a personal hobby is often seen as a sign of dedication or passion. However, it can also have negative connotations, suggesting an imbalance between work and life or an excessive obsession with one activity at the expense of others.

More Information

The verb *engross* typically refers to the act of fully absorbing someone's attention or mind. It can also apply to the process of acquiring something, especially goods, in such a way that others are excluded. In addition to its general use in describing deep concentration, *engross* can also be used in legal and economic contexts, such as in the practice of monopolizing markets. The word is part of a broader linguistic family, with related terms such as *engrossed*, *engrossing*, and *engrossment*, all pointing toward the central idea of full involvement or possession.