Dictionary
imposing
adjective
: very large or impressive
Full Definition of IMPOSING
: impressive in size, bearing, dignity, or grandeur
— im·pos·ing·ly \-ziŋ-lē\ adverb
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First Known Use of IMPOSING
1786
Related to IMPOSING
Synonym Discussion of IMPOSING
grand, magnificent, imposing, stately, majestic, grandiose mean large and impressive. grand adds to greatness of size the implications of handsomeness and dignity <a grand staircase>. magnificent implies an impressive largeness proportionate to scale without sacrifice of dignity or good taste <magnificent paintings>. imposing implies great size and dignity but especially stresses impressiveness <an imposing edifice>. stately may suggest poised dignity, erectness of bearing, handsomeness of proportions, ceremonious deliberation of movement <the stately procession>. majestic combines the implications of imposing and stately and usually adds a suggestion of solemn grandeur <a majestic waterfall>. grandiose implies a size or scope exceeding ordinary experience <grandiose hydroelectric projects> but is most commonly applied derogatorily to inflated pretension or absurd exaggeration <grandiose schemes>.
Rhymes with IMPOSING
IMPOSINGLY Defined for Kids
imposing
adjective im·pos·ing \im-ˈpō-ziŋ\
Definition of IMPOSING for Kids
: impressive because of size, dignity, or magnificence <The Army of Glinda the Good looked very grand and imposing … — L. Frank Baum, The Marvelous Land of Oz>
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