driving

[ drahy-ving ]

adjective

1. demanding a high or unreasonable rate of work from subordinates.
2. vigorously active; energetic:

   a driving young executive.

3. having force and violence:

   a driving storm.

4. relaying or transmitting power.
5. used while operating a vehicle:

   driving gloves.

driving

/ ˈdraɪvɪŋ /

adjective

1. having or moving with force and violence

   driving rain

2. forceful or energetic
3. relating to the controlling of a motor vehicle in motion

   driving test

Other Words From

• driving·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of driving¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English; drive + -ing ²

Example Sentences

Trump’s proposed immigration policy, which includes mass deportations, could further strain the economy by tightening labor markets, driving up wages and adding to inflationary pressures, analysts have said — particularly in low-wage industries like agriculture, construction and food service.

From Salon

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating Tesla’s autonomous driving technology after receiving reports of four crashes, including one that killed a pedestrian.

From Los Angeles Times

As his wife, Paula, started driving, he quickly yanked the garage door back down.

From Los Angeles Times

Roberts cited vague notions of “self-government” as the driving force in his desire for the United States to confront China.

From Salon

Mr Scullion, who spends his days driving for the dial-a-lift service, said rural roads in Mid Ulster are "very tired" and "the edges have eroded away".

From BBC

Related Words

• propulsive