ravishing

1 of 2

adjective

rav·​ish·​ing ˈra-vi-shiŋ 

: unusually attractive, pleasing, or striking

ravishingly

ˈra-vi-shiŋ-lē 

adverb

ravishing

2 of 2

present participle of ravish

Did you know?

ravishing or ravenous?

Ravenous and ravishing are not synonyms, and mixing these two words may lead to potentially awkward writing or conversation. Ravenous is commonly used with the meaning “very eager or greedy for food, satisfaction, or gratification,” and ravishing means “unusually attractive, pleasing, or striking.” If you find yourself hungry and standing in front of a spectacular-looking meal you would say (of the food) “that looks ravishing,” and (of yourself) “I am ravenous.” You may, of course, describe yourself as ravishing, but should be aware that you are commenting on your appearance rather than your hunger.

Synonyms of ravishing

Adjective

• beautiful
• lovely
• gorgeous
• handsome
• attractive
• cute
• pretty
• stunning
• charming

Examples of ravishing in a Sentence

Adjective

She is a ravishing beauty.

a ravishing view of the ocean

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

This ravishing, full-hearted epic is set during British rule in India, circa the early 1920s. — Declan Gallagher, Entertainment Weekly, 14 Aug. 2026

The show’s finale delivered a ravishing look at Black and white high society. — Matt Minton, Variety, 12 Aug. 2026

Returning to the Bay Area in this ravishing way after more than 30 years is a reminder that this Phantom hasn’t yet lost its bite. — David John Chávez, Mercury News, 1 June 2026

The vision conceived by museum director and Chief Executive Michael Govan and architect Peter Zumthor is not perfect, and brings with it a modest set of frustrations, but as a whole, the installation registers as ravishing and bracingly fresh. — Los Angeles Times, 22 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Middle English ravyschinge "rapacious, rapidly moving, delightful, enchanting," from present participle of ravisshen "to ravish"

First Known Use

Adjective

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for ravishing

• lavishing

Kids Definition

ravishing

adjective

rav·​ish·​ing ˈrav-ish-iŋ 

: very attractive or pleasing

ravishingly

-iŋ-lē 

adverb