impressive

[im-pres-iv]

adjective

1. having the ability to impress the mind; arousing admiration, awe, respect, etc.; moving; admirable.

   an impressive ceremony; an impressive appearance.

   Synonyms: awesome, imposing

impressive

/ ɪmˈprɛsɪv /

adjective

1. capable of impressing, esp by size, magnificence, etc; awe-inspiring; commanding

Other Word Forms

• impressively adverb
• impressiveness noun
• preimpressive adjective
• unimpressive adjective
• unimpressively adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of impressive¹

First recorded in 1585–95; impress ¹ + -ive

Example Sentences

Part of the impressive England first-innings bowling effort and tried to carry the fight with the bat in the second innings.

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Then she embarked on a run of films that remain her most impressive and important work.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Meanwhile Argentina have opted to keep Ojomoh's Bath team-mate Santiago Carreras among the replacements, after the playmaker was deployed to impressive effect from the bench in last weekend's win over Scotland.

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Even in a tape this brutal, a handful of technology stocks are displaying impressive resilience as they firm up near support levels.

Read more on Barron's

Even in a tape this brutal, a handful of technology stocks are displaying impressive resilience as they firm up near support levels.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• dramatic 
• exciting 
• extraordinary 
• important 
• imposing 
• intense 
• massive 
• monumental 
• notable 
• profound 
• remarkable 
• splendid 
• superb 
• thrilling