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

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of impressive¹

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

Example Sentences

That magnificence overpowers everything that went before it, which includes fabulous dance, arresting puppetry and outstanding singing actors, including Kang Wang, as Monkey, an impressive juggler in his own right.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

He has never taken his eye off the ball, really impressive.

Read more on BBC

From seven home innings he averages 72.57 while over 10 innings in the West Indies the figure is an impressive 51.33.

Read more on Barron's

And the defense has been particularly impressive with three shutouts.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Paramount+ is raising prices in the new year, but isn’t offering a very impressive lineup to close out 2025.

Read more on MarketWatch

Related Words

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