striking

adjective

strik·​ing ˈstrī-kiŋ 

: attracting attention or notice through unusual or conspicuous qualities

a place of striking beauty

strikingly adverb

Synonyms

• arresting
• bodacious
• bold
• brilliant
• catchy
• commanding
• conspicuous
• dramatic
• emphatic
• eye-catching
• flamboyant
• grabby
• kenspeckle [chiefly Scottish]
• marked
• noisy
• noticeable
• prominent
• pronounced
• remarkable
• showy
• splashy

Choose the Right Synonym for striking

noticeable, remarkable, prominent, outstanding, conspicuous, salient, striking mean attracting notice or attention.

noticeable applies to something unlikely to escape observation.

a piano recital with no noticeable errors

remarkable applies to something so extraordinary or exceptional as to invite comment.

a film of remarkable intelligence and wit

prominent applies to something commanding notice by standing out from its surroundings or background.

a doctor who occupies a prominent position in the town

outstanding applies to something that rises above and excels others of the same kind.

honored for her outstanding contributions to science

conspicuous applies to something that is obvious and unavoidable to the sight or mind.

conspicuous bureaucratic waste

salient applies to something of significance that merits the attention given it.

the salient points of the speech

striking applies to something that impresses itself powerfully and deeply upon the observer's mind or vision.

the region's striking poverty

Examples of striking in a Sentence

The poverty of the city is striking.

There is a striking resemblance between the girls.

an actress known for her striking good looks

Recent Examples on the Web

In some of Season 4’s most striking scenes—such as those involving two men who struggle with the lasting consequences of one’s childhood abuse—Guralnik helps her clients understand how coping mechanisms developed under duress can begin to undermine them. —Sophie Gilbert, The Atlantic, 12 Dec. 2024

And while Hozier has never seemed one to puff up his own wins, this time his entire team also appears to view the boost from his recent striking success in relatively low-key terms. —Andrew Unterberger, Billboard, 12 Dec. 2024

The kitchen presents a striking contrast to the abode’s otherwise earthy expression. —Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 12 Dec. 2024

Perhaps most striking is how influence can emerge from unexpected quarters. —Moira Forbes, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1725, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing striking

• in striking contrast to/with
• stand in striking contrast to/with
• striking distance

Kids Definition

striking

adjective

strik·​ing

ˈstrī-kiŋ

: attracting attention : remarkable, impressive

a striking costume

a striking resemblance

strikingly adverb