oncoming

American  

[on-kuhm-ing, awn-] / ˈɒnˌkʌm ɪŋ, ˈɔn- /

adjective

1. approaching; nearing.

   the oncoming train; the oncoming holiday season.

2. emerging.

   the oncoming generation of leaders.

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noun

1. approach; onset.

   the oncoming of winter.

oncoming British  

/ ˈɒnˌkʌmɪŋ /

adjective

1. coming nearer in space or time; approaching

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noun

1. the approach or onset

   the oncoming of winter

Etymology

Origin of oncoming

1835–45; on + coming, after verb phrase come on

Explanation

If you're standing on the tracks and a train is heading right for you, it's oncoming. Quick, jump out of the way! You'll almost always find the adjective oncoming describing a vehicle or other large object that's moving fast in your direction, whether it's an oncoming car, oncoming traffic, or an oncoming skateboarder who doesn't see you standing there. Much less often, oncoming means "imminent" or "upcoming:" "The oncoming summer holidays were something to look forward to."

Example Sentences

Oncoming storms are expected to bring 1 to 2 inches of rain to coastal areas Monday and dump heavy snow in the Sierra.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 7, 2023

Oncoming vehicles ground to a halt to avoid hitting it, and the 18-wheeler plowed into the stalled traffic.

From Reuters • Dec. 14, 2014

Oncoming traffic was heavy and my mom was gripping the emergency brake and maybe even looking for an oxygen mask.

From Time • Dec. 4, 2014

The Oncoming Storm Spoilers, teasers, video clips and lists.

From The Guardian • May 7, 2010

Oncoming traffic generally gives way, yet one van driver insists on trying to squeeze by.

From Time Magazine Archive

Related Words

• approaching
• onrushing