1 B2 idiomatic informal
To engage or capture someone's interest so strongly that they become involved
"The interactive display was designed to hook visitors in right from the entrance."
separable
hook in
B2 neutral separable transitive
To attract and engage someone's interest or involvement, or to connect something using a hook
In plain English
Get someone interested and involved so they want to stay, or physically attach something with a hook
What does "hook in" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 neutral
To connect or attach something physically using a hook or connector
"Make sure you hook in the safety harness before climbing the scaffolding."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To attach something using a hook, securing it in place
Actually means
Get someone interested and involved so they want to stay, or physically attach something with a hook
Usage tip
Can be used literally (attach a device) or figuratively (engage someone's interest). The figurative use is common in marketing, storytelling, and business contexts. Often used in the passive: 'I was completely hooked in by the opening chapter.'
Words that pair with "hook in"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
audience reader customer investor system network
How to conjugate "hook in"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
hook in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
hooks in
he/she/it
Past simple
hooked in
yesterday
Past participle
hooked in
have + pp
-ing form
hooking in
continuous
Hear "hook in" in the wild
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Other ways to say "hook in"
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