compelling
UK: kəmˈpelɪŋ | US: kəmˈpelɪŋ
adj. 1. Evoking strong interest, attention, or admiration; convincing.
adj. 2. Not able to be refuted; demanding acceptance or agreement.
vt. (present participle of "compel") Forcing someone to do something.
The word "compelling" originates from the Latin compellere, combining com- (intensifying "together") and pellere ("to push"). The root pel appears in many English words (e.g., "repel," "propel"), reflecting physical or metaphorical force. Over time, "compel" evolved from literal coercion to figurative persuasion, with "compelling" emphasizing irresistible logic or appeal. The suffix -ing marks its adjectival or verbal participle form.
The documentary presented a compelling argument for climate action.
Her performance was so compelling that the audience gave a standing ovation.
The judge found the evidence compelling enough to issue a warrant.
He felt compelled to apologize after realizing his mistake.
The novel’s plot is compelling from the first chapter.