daunting

adjective

daunt·​ing ˈdȯn-tiŋ 

ˈdän-

: tending to overwhelm or intimidate

a daunting task

dauntingly

ˈdȯn-tiŋ-lē 

ˈdän-

adverb

Examples of daunting in a Sentence

Few things are more daunting than having to speak in front of a large crowd.

Shakespeare's plays can be daunting for a young reader.

Recent Examples on the Web

Across the world, groups of activists, teachers and psychologists are tackling one of the planet's most daunting problems with laughter, dancing, hugs and most especially joy. —ABC News, 22 Apr. 2026

Planning a solo trip can feel both thrilling and daunting. —Lauren Schuster, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Apr. 2026

Francisco parred the final hole — a daunting 397-yard par-4 — to cap a 3-under 67 at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida. —Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 19 Apr. 2026

Back home and living in their parents’ hillside mansions, they’ll be faced with the daunting reality of confronting unresolved drama while trying to define what’s next for their lives and relationships. —Peter White, Deadline, 16 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

from present participle of daunt

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for daunting

• flaunting
• haunting
• shantung
• taunting
• vaunting
• wanting

Kids Definition

daunting

adjective

daunt·​ing ˈdȯnt-iŋ 

: tending to overwhelm or intimidate

a daunting task

dauntingly adverb