The phrase "riveted the eyes on" means to stare intensely or fixate one's gaze on something. The spelling of "riveted" may seem unusual with its -etED ending, but it follows a common pattern in English where a final consonant is doubled before adding -ED to form the past tense. The phonetic transcription for "riveted" is /ˈrɪvətɪd/, with stress on the first syllable and a short i sound. The phrase as a whole is pronounced as /ˈrɪvəd ˌði ˈaɪz ɒn/.
The phrase "riveted the eyes on" is an idiomatic expression that refers to the act of fixating or intensively focusing one's gaze on something or someone. It signifies a state where one's attention becomes fully captured and captivated, unable to be diverted or distracted. The term "riveted" in this context is borrowed from the world of engineering and construction, where rivets are used to fuse materials together, creating a strong and unbreakable connection. Similarly, when someone "rivets their eyes on" something, it implies a profound and unyielding attachment to the object of their attention.
To "rivet the eyes on" typically suggests a sense of fascination, engrossment, or absorption. It often signifies a deep emotional or intellectual interest in the subject matter. When a person is said to have "riveted their eyes on" someone, it can imply an intense admiration or attraction towards that person. Moreover, the phrase can also indicate a state of alarm, fear, or shock when someone is transfixed and unable to look away from something particularly awe-inspiring, extraordinary, or dreadful.
Overall, "riveting the eyes on" signifies a powerful and unwavering concentration of one's visual senses on a specific subject or person, showcasing a heightened level of attention and engagement beyond mere casual observation.