v.tr. 1 absorb the attention of; occupy fully (engrossed in studying). 2 make a fair copy of a legal document. 3 reproduce (a document etc.) in larger letters or larger format. 4 archaic monopolize (a conversation etc.). engrossing adj. (in sense 1). engrossment n.
[ ME f. AF engrosser: senses 2 and 3 f. en in + grosse large writing: senses 1 and 4 f. en gros wholesale ]