ravishing
UK: ˈrævɪʃɪŋ | US: ˈrævɪʃɪŋ
adj. extremely beautiful or attractive
vt. (archaic) seizing or carrying away by force
The word "ravishing" derives from the Old French ravir ("to seize, carry away"), which in turn comes from the Latin rapere ("to snatch, grab"). Originally, it described violent abduction (e.g., "ravished by pirates"), but by the 16th century, it evolved metaphorically to mean "enchanting" or "overwhelmingly delightful"—as if beauty "seizes" one’s senses. The suffix -ing turns the verb into an adjective, emphasizing the captivating effect.
She wore a ravishing red gown to the gala.
The sunset over the ocean was absolutely ravishing.
(Archaic) The invaders ravished the village, taking prisoners.
His ravishing smile left everyone spellbound.
The ballet performance was a ravishing display of artistry.