The phrase "were engrossed in" refers to a state of intense absorption or deep involvement in a particular activity, subject, or situation. When individuals are engrossed in something, they become fully immersed and highly focused, often to the point where they may be oblivious to their surroundings or the passage of time.
To be engrossed in an activity implies a complete mental and emotional investment, characterized by concentration and undivided attention. Whether it is reading a captivating book, solving a complex puzzle, playing a challenging video game, engaging in a thought-provoking conversation, or even watching a captivating film, individuals who are engrossed are completely captivated and absorbed.
The concept of being engrossed suggests a strong interest, enthusiasm, or fascination, wherein individuals are deeply engrossed in the present moment, disregarding any distractions or interruptions. This level of engagement often leads to a heightened sense of concentration, enhanced perception, and an altered perception of time.
Furthermore, being engrossed often results in a state of mental and emotional immersion, whereby one's thoughts, emotions, and senses are fully engrossed in the experience. It is a state characterized by mental flow, where one's attention is fully focused, and the mind is fully occupied with the activity at hand.
To summarize, when individuals are "engrossed in" something, they are intensely absorbed, wholly focused, and deeply involved in a specific activity, subject, or situation, leading to an elevated state of concentration, immersion, and mental engagement.
