pressing

adjective

press·​ing ˈpre-siŋ How to pronounce pressing (audio)
Synonyms of pressingnext
1
: urgently important : critical
a pressing issue
2
pressingly adverb

Examples of pressing in a Sentence

a pressing need for reform she had pressing business on the other side of town
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The big question is whether Tisza can afford to make culture a priority, with the economic situation by far the most pressing issue for most Hungarians. Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 16 Apr. 2026 Witnessing the power their words and stories hold, UAF will be joining delegates from other states to discuss the most pressing issues. Mariia Yastreba, Miami Herald, 15 Apr. 2026 With offensive coordinator Brad Idzik taking over play-calling, the Panthers have a much more pressing need for pass-catching playmakers than backfield bodies. Mike Kaye april 14, Charlotte Observer, 14 Apr. 2026 But the most complicated issue of all is arguably the most pressing, at least for fans. Jon Wilner, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pressing

Word History

First Known Use

1591, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of pressing was in 1591

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Cite this Entry

“Pressing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pressing. Accessed 18 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

pressing

adjective
press·​ing ˈpres-iŋ How to pronounce pressing (audio)
: needing one's immediate attention
a pressing issue
pressingly adverb

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