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engagement
/ɪnˈɡeɪdʒmənt/
commitment or involvement
Her engagement to her partner was announced last week.
This refers to her formal commitment to marry.
formal
A formal agreement to marry
They celebrated their engagement with a small party.
This describes the period after they agreed to marry.
Often involves a ring and public announcement.
general
The act of engaging or involving someone
The company's engagement with local communities improved.
This means the company became more involved with the community.
Can refer to emotional, social, or professional involvement.
historical
A battle or conflict between military forces
The engagement at Waterloo was decisive.
This refers to a major battle in history.
Less common modern usage.
Collocations
engagement ringa ring given to someone when proposing marriageemployee engagementthe level of commitment employees feel toward their work
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Context Matters
The meaning of 'engagement' depends heavily on context—marriage, work, or military.
Gold Rule
Formal vs. General
In formal contexts, 'engagement' often refers to marriage; in general contexts, it means involvement.
Word Origin
From Middle French 'engagement', from 'engager' (to pledge), from Old French 'engagier' (to engage)
Usage Notes
Can refer to marriage, social involvement, or military conflict. Context determines meaning.
Word Breakdown
engage
to involve or occupy
root-ment
the act or result of
suffixEnglish Dictionary