verb
1.
to come into contact and interlock with
the teeth of one gear wheel engaging those of another
Synonyms: intermesh, mesh
Related Word: interact, interlace, interlock, interplay
Contrasted words: free, release
Antonyms: disengage
2.
Synonyms: promise 1, pass, pledge, undertake
Related Word: commit; bind, tie; affiance, betroth, troth
3.
Synonyms: employ 2, hire, put on, take on
Contrasted words: dismiss, eject, fire
Antonyms: discharge
4.
to hold the attention of
the puzzle engaged him all evening
Synonyms: busy, engross, immerse, occupy, soak
Related Word: absorb, imbue, involve; arrest, captivate, enthrall, fascinate, grip; monopolize, preengage, preoccupy
5.
to enter into contest or conflict with
ordered to seek out and engage the enemy fleet
Synonyms: encounter, face, meet, take on
Related Word: assault, attack, strike; battle, fight
Idioms: do battle with, join battle with
Contrasted words: elude, escape, evade