"commanding attention," 1854, present-participle adjective from rivet (v.). Earlier in a figurative sense of "clinching" (of an argument, etc.), 1670s. Related: Rivetingly.
Entries linking to riveting
rivet v.
early 15c., riveten, "to fasten (something) with rivets," also "to fasten (a nail or bolt) by hammering down the rivet," from rivet (n.). Figurative meaning "to command the attention" is from c. 1600 (For I mine eyes will rivet to his Face - "Hamlet"). Related: Riveted; riveting.