What does rapt mean?
Rapt describes a person whose attention is completely captured by something. The phrase “rapt attention” is the most common modern use, as in a listener who misses every detail of a song because the music is so compelling. A “rapt audience” is similarly engrossed, responding with concentrated attention and often genuine delight. Rapt can also have a more literary quality, meaning that someone is carried away by wonder, excitement, or another powerful feeling. Unlike “excited,” which emphasizes visible emotional intensity, “rapt” often suggests inward absorption or fascination. The word is useful when describing the difference between ordinary attention and a state of complete, almost suspended awareness.
Fully absorbed in or attentively focused on something; captivated.
"He gave the manuscript his rapt attention."
Especially common with “attention,” “audience,” and “concentration.”
Carried away by a strong emotion or experience.
"The travelers were rapt with wonder at the vast expanse of the desert."
This sense is literary and often occurs in phrases such as “rapt with wonder” or “rapt with delight.”
Rapt attention is attention so complete that the rest of the world temporarily disappears.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does rapt come from?
Rapt comes through Middle English from Latin raptus, the past participle of rapere, meaning “to seize” or “to carry off.” Its earlier sense of being seized or transported by emotion developed into the modern meanings of absorption and intense attention. The same Latin root underlies words such as rapture, rapacious, rape, and ravish, although their modern meanings have diverged considerably.
Related word forms
How rapt is actually used
Common in phrases such as “rapt attention” and “rapt audience.” The sense of being emotionally transported is more literary than the everyday sense of intense concentration.
Easily confused with rapt
“Rapt” means absorbed or captivated, while “rapped” means wrapped or enclosed, as in a blanket or shawl.