1
as in interesting
holding the attention or provoking interest
an arresting film about tribal traditions in Africa
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in commanding
likely to attract attention
at seven feet tall, he's an arresting figure in any crowd
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
1
as in seizing
to take or keep under one's control by authority of law
the inept robber was promptly arrested by the off-duty policeman he had tried to hold up
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in stopping
to bring (something) to a standstill
cryogenics is based on the idea that extreme cold can almost arrest molecular motion
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in fascinating
to hold the attention of as if by a spell
the sight of the daredevil walking a tightrope between high-rises arrested area pedestrians and motorists alike
Synonyms & Similar Words
Example Sentences
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.
Recent Examples of arresting
Piet Levy,
jsonline.com,
26 Apr. 2026
Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony played no small role in lifting the collective mood, preparing Tokyo to create what now feels like the world’s most arresting capital.
—
Classical Music Critic,
Los Angeles Times,
20 Mar. 2026
Frank Scheck,
HollywoodReporter,
25 June 2026
Today, the lighthouse is open for tours during the summer and offers arresting views of Sleeping Bear Bay and the mainland.
—
Robert Annis,
Midwest Living,
24 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for arresting
Adjective
The most arresting aspect of her art is the live show - with Cherie performing barefoot behind a translucent screen for her 40-minute set.
—
Piet Levy,
jsonline.com,
26 Apr. 2026
Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony played no small role in lifting the collective mood, preparing Tokyo to create what now feels like the world’s most arresting capital.
—
Classical Music Critic,
Los Angeles Times,
20 Mar. 2026
Verb
Although the visual quality throughout is strictly low-rent, the arresting opening and closing sequences reflect the visual panache of Spike Jonze, who produced.
—
Frank Scheck,
HollywoodReporter,
25 June 2026
Today, the lighthouse is open for tours during the summer and offers arresting views of Sleeping Bear Bay and the mainland.
—
Robert Annis,
Midwest Living,
24 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for arresting
Recent Examples of Synonyms for arresting
Adjective
-
One interesting trend is that this tournament will feature some very good tight ends, a position that has become increasingly important in college football and the NFL but not so much in high school football in the era of spread offenses.
-
But perhaps the most interesting aspect of this news is the potential military applications for this new engine.
Adjective
-
And beyond all the light and magic of their goals, this was just a very commanding team performance.
-
The venue falls within the NYPD's Patrol Borough Manhattan South, whose commanding officer was reassigned last week amid an internal affairs corruption probe.
Verb
-
Authorities served a search warrant at the rescue on May 1, seizing electronics, business records, financial records, firearms, and other evidence, according to the sheriff.
-
For leadership teams worldwide, this requires striking a careful balance between responding to immediate disruption and seizing arising opportunities to bolster growth.
Verb
-
Technology led to the suspect's arrest Officers obtained doorbell camera footage, which showed a silver SUV stopping along a curb on Majors Choice Drive.
-
Its compact size and functional interior and exterior pockets will make zipping through airport security or stopping for gas on road trips a breeze — no more digging through disorganized totes to locate your wallet and phone.
Verb
-
Wilentz, author of the 2010 book Dylan in America, wrote Volume 18‘s detailed, often fascinating 125-page liner notes that provides historical context for the expansive eight-CD set.
-
Once on the ground visitors can enjoy Greenland’s rugged coastal landscapes, fascinating indigenous Inuit culture, and the opportunity to experience the country at its primordial best.
Adjective
-
Below, members of Forbes Technology Council share ways organizations can make cybersecurity training more engaging so essential security habits are more likely to stick.
-
Audiences want a quiet, efficient, relaxing, fun, visually engaging, communal experience unavailable at home.
Adjective
-
North America was the main surprise, while Africa also contributed a noticeable share of the increase from a much smaller base.
-
Frustingly for Croatia, Matanović’s tiny touch was barely noticeable with the naked eye.
Verb
-
Police posted video of the raid on social media, showing officers collecting evidence at the scene and apprehending the suspect.
-
The Nodaway County Sheriff’s Office, United States Marshals Service and New Mexico State Police assisted in apprehending Jones, Hann said.
Cite this Entry
“Arresting.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/arresting. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
