arresting
UK: əˈrɛstɪŋ | US: əˈrɛstɪŋ
adj. striking or attracting attention; eye-catching
vt. (present participle of "arrest") detaining someone legally; stopping or slowing progress
The word "arresting" derives from the verb "arrest," which entered Middle English via Old French arester (to stop, detain), itself from Latin arrestare (to remain standing). The Latin term combines ad- (to) + restare (to stand firm). Over time, "arrest" evolved to mean both legal detention and the act of halting motion. The suffix -ing forms the present participle, giving "arresting" its dual sense of "detaining" (literal) and "captivating" (figurative, as if stopping one’s attention).
The painting’s arresting colors drew crowds at the gallery.
Police are arresting suspects in connection with the theft.
Her arresting voice commanded silence in the room.
The officer is arresting the driver for speeding.
The documentary’s arresting visuals left a lasting impression.