compelling

[ kuhm-pel-ing ]

adjective

1. tending to compel, as to force or push toward a course of action; overpowering:

   There were compelling reasons for their divorce.

2. having a powerful and irresistible effect; requiring acute admiration, attention, or respect:

   a man of compelling integrity; a compelling drama.

compelling

/ kəmˈpɛlɪŋ /

adjective

1. arousing or denoting strong interest, esp admiring interest
2. (of an argument, evidence, etc) convincing

Other Words From

• uncom·pelling adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of compelling¹

First recorded in 1490–1500; compel + -ing ²

Related Words

• fascinating