compelling

adjective

com·​pel·​ling kəm-ˈpe-liŋ How to pronounce compelling (audio)
: 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
no compelling evidence
compellingly adverb

Examples of compelling in a Sentence

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That is why the idea of a single payment app that streamlines all financial needs is so compelling. Zennon Kapron, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025 The long-running series has kept diehard fans hooked for 20 years, with creator Shonda Rhimes perfecting the formula for a delicious doctor drama featuring hot hookups, compelling cases of the week, and shocking deaths. Chris Snellgrove, EW.com, 27 Mar. 2025 The catch is a price hike over previous Poco F series releases, but at the early-bird price, the F7 Ultra is a compelling bargain. Simon Hill, Wired News, 27 Mar. 2025 There is no compelling reason to return to the monopolistic system other than for utility shareholders to profit off of Maryland consumers. Mary Beth Tung, Baltimore Sun, 27 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for compelling

Word History

Etymology

from present participle of compel

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of compelling was in 1606

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Compelling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compelling. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025.

Legal Definition

compelling

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

More from Merriam-Webster on compelling

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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