taking

[ tey-king ]

noun

1. the act of a person or thing that takes.
2. the state of being taken. taken.
3. something that is taken. taken.
4. an action by the federal government, as a regulatory ruling, that imposes a restriction on the use of private property for which the owner must be compensated.
5. takings, receipts, especially of money earned or gained.
6. Archaic. a state of agitation or distress.

adjective

1. captivating, winning, or pleasing.
2. Archaic. infectious or contagious.

taking

/ ˈteɪkɪŋ /

adjective

1. charming, fascinating, or intriguing
2. informal.
   infectious; catching

noun

1. something taken
2. plural receipts; earnings

Derived Forms

• ˈtakingness, noun
• ˈtakingly, adverb

Other Words From

• taking·ly adverb
• un·taking adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of taking¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English takyng (gerund); take, -ing ¹, -ing ²

Example Sentences

In July, the Home Office said no decision had been taken on the use of the site and that it would “consider its strategy and broader requirements before taking a view on the future use of it”.

From BBC

“We are taking a close, detailed look at where we fell short and how we can do better moving forward. This comprehensive review and these recommendations will help ensure that we have actionable plans and policies in place to prevent similar events from happening again.”

From Los Angeles Times

Liam Livingstone was dropped three times before taking England to a series-clinching three-wicket win over West Indies in the third T20.

From BBC

He bounced between three high schools in two states before taking the reins as a freshman at Nevada Las Vegas last season.

From Los Angeles Times

Should the sunset properly backlight a small waterfall known as Horsetail Fall just so, the cascading water becomes a “firefall,” taking on an orange glow that can appear very lava-like.

From Los Angeles Times