Definition of: engage

(in·gāj′) v. ·gaged, ·gag·ing v.t.
1. To bind by a promise, pledge, etc.
2. To promise to marry; betroth: usually in the passive.
3. To hire, as a lawyer, or his services; secure the use of, as a room.
4. To hold the interest or attention of.
5. To hold (interest or attention); occupy.
6. To occupy or take up the extent, energies, etc., of: How do you engage your time?
7. To win over; attract: to engage affections.
8. To begin a battle with: We engaged the enemy.
9. Mech. To mesh or interlock.
—v.i.
10. To bind oneself by a promise, pledge, etc.
11. To devote or occupy oneself: to engage in research.
12. To begin a battle.
13. Mech. To mesh. See synonyms under BIND, EMPLOY, INTEREST, OCCUPY, RETAIN. [<F engager <en- in + gager pledge]