compelling

1 of 2

adjective

com·​pel·​ling kəm-ˈpe-liŋ How to pronounce compelling (audio)
Synonyms of compelling
: that compels: such as
a
: forceful
a compelling personality
a compelling desire
b
: demanding attention
for compelling reasons
The novel was so compelling that I couldn't put it down.
c
: convincing entry 1
no compelling evidence
compellingly adverb

compelling

2 of 2

present participle of compel

Synonyms of compelling

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Adjective

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Examples of compelling in a Sentence

Adjective The novel was so compelling that I couldn't put it down. He made a compelling argument. I would need a very compelling reason to leave my job. She had a compelling need to share what she had heard.
Recent Examples on the Web
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Adjective
Its spacious third row remains a particularly compelling advantage for families who regularly transport several adults or older children. — New Atlas, 24 Oct. 2026 Unfortunately, for my money, Azzougarh doesn’t ultimately prove a compelling presence on screen. — Brian Boucher, ARTnews.com, 24 Oct. 2026 Luka Doncic’s nonstop arguments with officials and trash talk may frustrate opponents, but his theatrical edge is part of what makes the Lakers star so compelling. — Los Angeles Times, 24 Oct. 2026 In one, the broadcaster seeks an order compelling the department to permit Cipollone to testify. — Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 23 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for compelling

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

from present participle of compel

First Known Use

Adjective

1606, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of compelling was in 1606

Rhymes for compelling

See All Rhymes for compelling

Browse Nearby Words

compellent
compelling
compend
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Compelling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compelling. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Legal Definition

compelling

adjective
: that compels : tending to demand action or to convince
a compelling need for disclosure
a compelling argument
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