imposing

[im-poh-zing]

adjective

1. very impressive because of great size, stately appearance, dignity, elegance, etc..

   Notre Dame, Rheims, and other imposing cathedrals of France.

   Synonyms: august, grand, lofty, majestic, dignified

imposing

/ ɪmˈpəʊzɪŋ /

adjective

1. grand or impressive

   an imposing building

Other Word Forms

• imposingness noun
• imposingly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of imposing¹

First recorded in 1645–55; impose + -ing ²

Example Sentences

It's a medium security prison, but the thick iron gates and imposing white walls topped with barbed wire give it a more "maximum" feel.

From BBC

In May, the US president said he would talk to Hollywood executives about his plan and to begin the process of imposing the levy because America's film industry was dying "a very fast death".

From BBC

He criticised in particular the UK government for imposing new taxes on North Sea oil.

From BBC

The Pentagon announced it was imposing new restrictions on reporters who cover the U.S. military.

From Los Angeles Times

While the show is in limbo, it is unclear what will happen to Kimmel’s iconic theater in the historic former Hollywood Masonic Temple, a neoclassical 1921 building fronted by six imposing columns.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• commanding 
• grand 
• grandiose 
• imperial 
• magnificent 
• massive 
• monumental 
• noble 
• ominous 
• stately 
• striking 
• towering