sobering

1 of 2

adjective

so·​ber·​ing ˈsō-b(ə-)riŋ 

: tending to make one thoughtful or sober

sobering

2 of 2

present participle of sober entry 2

Examples of sobering in a Sentence

Adjective

His death is a sobering reminder of the dangers of mountaineering.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

There have been several studies into this problem with sobering findings. — Jeff Wagner, CBS News, 21 Oct. 2026

Shapiro’s session offered sobering stats about the changing nature of viewing audiences. — Leo Barraclough, Variety, 15 Oct. 2026

The findings offer a sobering snapshot of the morale among the teaching workforce at a time when many students are struggling in core subjects, and adults cast doubt on schools’ ability to prepare students for the future. — Lauren Lumpkin, Washington Post, 14 Oct. 2026

Late eating may even be linked to a higher risk of death, according to a sobering 2024 study. — Jamie Ducharme, HEALTH, 7 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1816, in the meaning defined above