compelling

American  

[kuhm-pel-ing] / kəmˈpɛl ɪŋ /

adjective

1. tending to compel, as to force or push toward a course of action; overpowering.

   There were compelling reasons for their divorce.

2. having a powerful and irresistible effect; requiring acute admiration, attention, or respect.

   a man of compelling integrity; a compelling drama.

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compelling British  

/ kəmˈpɛlɪŋ /

adjective

1. arousing or denoting strong interest, esp admiring interest

2. (of an argument, evidence, etc) convincing

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Other Word Forms

• uncompelling adjective

Etymology

Origin of compelling

First recorded in 1490–1500; compel + -ing ²

Example Sentences

But Veeco could be a “compelling” long-term play due to the tools the company offers, according to Klein.

From MarketWatch

“We still see a compelling equity story ahead,” she added.

From Barron's

Thus the company’s compelling strapline, “Ready in 5, full in 9, cold add 3.”

From The Wall Street Journal

Yet this strangely compelling work has simultaneously beguiled and baffled art historians for generations, starting with the odd moment that Pontormo chose to depict in his innovative way, isolated from the rest of the narrative.

From The Wall Street Journal

But I also frequently find that fashion documentaries, while almost always interesting if you enjoy art and process, are not totally compelling.

From Salon

Related Words

• fascinating