Which is the meaning of root -cap- in words such as captivate and captive?

The root "-cap-" in words like "captivate" and "captive" comes from the Latin word "capere," which means "to take" or "to seize."

Here's how it breaks down:

* Captivate: To take or seize someone's attention or interest.

* Captive: One who has been taken or seized, often as a prisoner.

So, the root "-cap-" essentially signifies the act of taking hold of something or someone.