engagement

Etymology

From French engagement.

noun

1. (countable) An appointment, especially to speak or perform.
   The lecturer has three speaking engagements this week.
   prior engagement
   a future engagement
2. (uncountable) Connection or attachment.
   Check the gears for full engagement before turning the handle.
3. (uncountable, by extension, about human emotional state) The feeling of being compelled, drawn in, connected to what is happening, interested in what will happen next.
4. (countable, uncountable) The period of time when marriage is planned or promised.
   We are enjoying a long engagement, but haven't yet set a date.
5. (countable, uncountable) In any situation of conflict, an actual instance of active hostilities.
   The engagement resulted in many casualties.
6. (fencing, countable) The point at which the fencers are close enough to join blades, or to make an effective attack during an encounter.
   After engagement it quickly became clear which of the fencers was going to prevail.