imposing
Americanadjective
adjective
Other Word Forms
- imposingly adverb
- imposingness noun
Etymology
Origin of imposing
Explanation
Imposing is an adjective reserved for those things that are impressive in the sense that they are large or serious, as in the US Capitol Building or even, say, a professional wrestler. When you look at the word imposing you see the word pose, which is useful in remembering what it means. A person who is imposing might strike a pose because they feel they have a lot to show. In fact, imposing is derived from the French verb imposer, which means "to inflict." Its French roots may inspire you to envision the enormous and expensive wigs worn by members of the French court. The larger the wig, the more imposing it was. And all the more reason to strike a pose!
Vocabulary lists containing imposing
The Vocabulary.com Top 1000
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The SAT: Words to Capture Tone, List 3
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An "August" Assortment: Words Worthy of Honor
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Emery immediately made an impact, imposing structure, clarity and belief on a Villa side that was once again flirting with relegation to guide them to a top‑seven finish and European qualification in his first season.
From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026
The other charge accuses UC of imposing “unilateral changes to the terms and conditions of employment” for union members.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 15, 2026
Mr. Trump was in the mood to knock down the East Wing of the White House and build in its place something huge and imposing, certainly needed, possibly grand.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 2, 2026
With regard to pharmaceutical products from the U.K., the White House pointed to a recently concluded trade agreement imposing 10% tariffs.
From Barron's • Apr. 2, 2026
Colin’s steps slow, taking in the imposing building with countless windows and columns.
From "The Bletchley Riddle" by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
