striking

1 of 2

adjective

strik·​ing ˈstrī-kiŋ 

: attracting attention or notice through unusual or conspicuous qualities

a place of striking beauty

strikingly adverb

striking

2 of 2

present participle of strike entry 1

Synonyms of striking

Adjective

• noticeable
• prominent
• commanding
• dramatic
• remarkable
• impressive
• marked

Choose the Right Synonym for striking

noticeable, remarkable, prominent, outstanding, conspicuous, salient, striking mean attracting notice or attention.

noticeable applies to something unlikely to escape observation.

a piano recital with no noticeable errors

remarkable applies to something so extraordinary or exceptional as to invite comment.

a film of remarkable intelligence and wit

prominent applies to something commanding notice by standing out from its surroundings or background.

a doctor who occupies a prominent position in the town

outstanding applies to something that rises above and excels others of the same kind.

honored for her outstanding contributions to science

conspicuous applies to something that is obvious and unavoidable to the sight or mind.

conspicuous bureaucratic waste

salient applies to something of significance that merits the attention given it.

the salient points of the speech

striking applies to something that impresses itself powerfully and deeply upon the observer's mind or vision.

the region's striking poverty

Examples of striking in a Sentence

Adjective

The poverty of the city is striking.

There is a striking resemblance between the girls.

an actress known for her striking good looks

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Roman design studio Roselli Architetti was enlisted to restore it into one building without forgetting its history; the result is a striking design that blends ancient artifacts with retro midcentury flooring and contemporary furnishings. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 Sep. 2026

The standout middle finger showcases a unique design with an unpainted area in the center, creating a striking negative space effect that contrasts nicely with the polished cuticle and tips. — Kara Jillian Brown, InStyle, 18 Sep. 2026

Ever guided by her own creative instincts, rather than prevailing musical trends of the moment, Lambert is particularly compelling with this striking performance. — Kyle Denis, Billboard, 18 Sep. 2026

While eight of these cases were in Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties, a striking 95 occurred in Hillsborough County, where mosquito control teams are working overtime and ramping up spraying. — Cindy Krischer Goodman, Miami Herald, 17 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1725, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing striking

• in striking contrast to/with
• stand in striking contrast to/with
• striking distance

Rhymes for striking

• biking
• diking
• hiking
• liking
• spiking
• viking
• disliking
• hitchhiking

Kids Definition

striking

adjective

strik·​ing

ˈstrī-kiŋ

: attracting attention : remarkable, impressive

a striking costume

a striking resemblance

strikingly adverb