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

With her toadstool-like jet-black perm and dark red lipstick, Haru is a striking presence, the sensuousness of her moves conveying both longing and sorrow. — Los Angeles Times, 25 Sep. 2026

The vertical seaside town of Positano is home to the striking rouge Le Sirenuse, a hotel that’s a destination in itself and now run by three generations. — Lane Nieset, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 Sep. 2026

That same day, she was photographed ambling down a picturesque street in a striking purple short set, casually holding an Aperol spritz. — Hillary Busis, Vanity Fair, 25 Sep. 2026

Yet their mathematical languages have a striking resemblance. — Pravir Malik, Forbes.com, 25 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