Engage

Definition

Engage is a verb that means to participate or become involved in an activity, to attract and hold attention, or to formally commit to a task or agreement. It is used to describe the act of actively involving oneself or others in a specific task, relationship, or commitment.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈɡeɪdʒ/
• Respelling: in-GAYJ

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈɡeɪdʒ/
• Respelling: in-GAYJ

Etymology

The word "engage" originates from the Old French "engager," meaning "to pledge" or "to involve oneself." It stems from the root "gage," meaning "pledge," with the prefix "en-" implying involvement or entering into an action. The term entered English in the Middle Ages, evolving to mean participation and involvement in a task or activity.

Derivatives

• Engagement (noun)
• Engaging (adjective)
• Engaged (adjective)
• Reengage (verb)
• Disengage (verb)

Synonyms

• Participate
• Involve
• Attract

Antonyms

• Disengage
• Ignore
• Disconnect

Usage

The verb "engage" is used to describe involvement or interaction, as in "She was able to engage the audience with her presentation." It can also mean to formally commit to an agreement, such as "The company will engage a consultant for the project."

Related Terms

• Commitment: A pledge or promise to do something.
• Involvement: The act of participating in an activity or task.
• Interaction: A mutual or reciprocal action or influence.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To participate or become involved in: Refers to actively taking part in an activity or interaction.
  • Example: "The teacher encouraged students to engage in the discussion."
• To attract or hold attention: Describes the act of drawing in someone’s interest or focus.
  • Example: "The speaker engaged the audience with her compelling stories."
• To formally commit to or enter into a contract or task: Used to indicate involvement in a formal arrangement or task.
  • Example: "They engaged a lawyer to handle the case."