oncoming

adjective

on·​com·​ing ˈȯn-ˌkə-miŋ 

ˈän-

1

a

: coming nearer in time or space

the oncoming year

oncoming traffic

an oncoming car

b

: future

looked forward to his oncoming visit

2

: emergent, rising

the oncoming generation

Synonyms of oncoming

• upcoming
• approaching
• impending
• coming

Examples of oncoming in a Sentence

we're looking forward to your oncoming visit

Recent Examples on the Web

O’Neil then swerved in avoidance, right into an oncoming semi truck. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 28 June 2026

There is glare from streetlights, bright headlights from oncoming vehicles, and dark skies in the background. — Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 27 June 2026

Wilson has been charged with fleeing to elude arrest, unsafe passing into oncoming traffic, breaking and/or entering, larceny after breaking and entering, felony conspiracy, and felony possession with intent to distribute Schedule IV narcotics, records show. — Mark Price, Charlotte Observer, 23 June 2026

Officers believe the motorcyclist was heading east on Highway 50 when the rider crossed into oncoming traffic. — Cecilio Padilla, CBS News, 22 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1844, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for oncoming

• becoming
• forthcoming
• homecoming
• incoming
• shortcoming
• succumbing
• upcoming
• coming
• cumming
• drumming
• gumming
• humming

Kids Definition

oncoming

adjective

on·​com·​ing ˈȯn-ˌkəm-iŋ 

ˈän-

: coming nearer

oncoming traffic