addicting

adjective

ad·​dict·​ing ə-ˈdik-tiŋ 

: causing addiction : addictive

a

: causing a compulsive, chronic, physiological or psychological need for a habit-forming substance, behavior, or activity

Although codeine is potentially addicting, it rarely causes physical dependence when taken orally for a short time.

—Consumer Reports

b

: producing a strong inclination to do, use, or indulge in something repeatedly

This relish is typically used as a topping for bruschetta …—but I find it so addicting I can simply eat spoonfuls from a bowl.

—Francisco J. Robert

Synonyms

• addictive
• habit-forming

Examples of addicting in a Sentence

cocaine is highly addicting

Recent Examples on the Web

Minimalist artists Sol LeWitt, Frank Stella and Donald Judd seemed to know this, captivating us with the addicting lucidity of their stark lines, colors and shapes. —Julissa James, Los Angeles Times, 8 Apr. 2025

Featuring addicting notes of bergamot, lychee, Turkish rose, lily of the valley and peony, this ensemble is complemented by the creamy and powdery finish of vanilla, musk and cashmere. —Denise Primbet, Glamour, 5 Mar. 2025

But these are the twists that make The Traitors so addicting. —Rebecca Alter, Vulture, 9 Jan. 2025

Apps like TikTok and Instagram can be genuinely addicting and are often targeted at teens. —Allison Parshall, Scientific American, 18 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

from present participle of addict entry 2

First Known Use

1931, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for addicting

• afflicting
• conflicting
• constricting
• convicting
• depicting
• evicting
• inflicting
• predicting
• restricting
• contradicting