Engagement Meaning

UK /ɪnˈɡeɪdʒmənt/
US /ɪnˈɡeɪdʒmənt/
Word Definition
engagement meaning

Engagement Definition & Usage

noun

A formal agreement to marry.

Examples

  • "They announced their engagement at the family dinner last night."
  • "After two years of dating, Mark finally proposed, and now they're planning the engagement party."
  • "Her engagement ring sparkled in the sunlight as she showed it off to her friends."
  • "I can't believe their engagement! It feels like it was just yesterday they were just dating casually."
  • "The couple's engagement was a surprise to everyone at work."
noun

The act of engaging or occupying one's attention or time, often in a meaningful or purposeful manner.

Examples

  • "The teacher’s engagement with the students made the lesson feel interactive and exciting."
  • "Her engagement in the community service project helped raise awareness for environmental issues."
  • "The company reported higher levels of customer engagement after launching their new app."
  • "Social media influencers rely heavily on their engagement with followers to build their brand."
  • "There has been a noticeable increase in engagement at the museum since the new exhibition opened."
noun

A formal encounter or conflict, often in a military or business context, involving active participation or confrontation.

Examples

  • "The engagement between the two armies lasted for several hours."
  • "The CEO’s engagement with international partners is crucial for expanding the company’s global reach."
  • "The battle engagements were intense, and both sides suffered significant losses."
  • "The firm’s successful engagement with stakeholders helped secure the future of the project."
  • "The negotiations were tense, with many verbal engagements between the two parties."

Cultural Context

The term 'engagement' has evolved over centuries. Initially referring to formal promises or commitments, it has come to be associated predominantly with romantic relationships in the modern world, particularly in Western cultures. In a broader sense, 'engagement' also covers involvement or participation in various activities, especially in educational, social, and professional contexts.

The Unexpected Engagement

Story

The Unexpected Engagement

Jenna had never imagined that a simple walk in the park could lead to such a life-altering moment. As she strolled through the sun-dappled pathway, she thought about her recent work engagements – meetings that had taken up most of her time. But today was different. Jake, her boyfriend of three years, had been unusually quiet, almost as if he was lost in thought. "What’s on your mind?" Jenna asked, stopping to look at him. He smiled nervously and reached into his pocket, pulling out a small box. 'Jenna, I’ve never been more engaged in anything in my life than I am in this moment with you. Will you marry me?' The words hit her like a wave. She was speechless, staring at the ring as it gleamed in the afternoon light. But before she could answer, her phone buzzed with an email notification. 'Just a sec, Jake.' She opened the message from work: 'We’ve noticed a significant increase in user engagement on the latest product – great job!' Jenna chuckled at the irony. 'I guess we’re both engaged in something big today.' Jake laughed and took her hand. 'So, what’s your answer?' With a grin, she nodded. 'Yes, yes, I will.'

The Unexpected Engagement