sobering

adjective

so·​ber·​ing ˈsō-b(ə-)riŋ How to pronounce sobering (audio)
: tending to make one thoughtful or sober

Examples of sobering in a Sentence

His death is a sobering reminder of the dangers of mountaineering.
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.
By the numbers The numbers around eating disorders at midlife are sobering: Rates of eating disorders among middle-aged women have increased in recent years. — Rebecca Lester, The Conversation, 12 Mar. 2025 Lessons Learned And Future Preparedness This winter’s events offer a sobering lesson for policymakers and community leaders. — Jim Foerster, Forbes, 4 Mar. 2025 After a sobering final year with Mercedes that appeared to sap some of the fizz from his love for F1, often hamstrung by an underperforming car, Hamilton has a fresh spring in his step. — Luke Smith, The Athletic, 20 Feb. 2025 So consider this sobering fact: Medicare/ACA and national defense, each often associated with a different side of the political spectrum, totaled over $1.8 trillion. — Brian Maryott, Orange County Register, 17 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sobering

Word History

First Known Use

1816, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sobering was in 1816

Browse Nearby Words

sobering
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Cite this Entry

“Sobering.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sobering. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

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