encouraging

adjective

en·​cour·​ag·​ing in-ˈkər-i-jiŋ How to pronounce encouraging (audio)
-ˈkə-ri-,
en-
: giving hope or promise
encouraging news
encouragingly
in-ˈkər-i-jiŋ-lē How to pronounce encouraging (audio)
-ˈkə-ri-
en-
adverb

Examples of encouraging in a Sentence

We've just heard some encouraging news. encouraging signs that the economy is improving
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Still, as of Monday, head coach John Harbaugh provided an encouraging update on Jackson’s status ahead of Thursday night’s matchup with the Miami Dolphins. Cole Sullivan, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 Oct. 2025 Management noted some encouraging signs, including a better-than-expected back-to-school performance, but questions remain over how much longer the turnaround strategy would need to take hold. Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 28 Oct. 2025 The early returns on the Miami Heat’s bench have been encouraging. Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 27 Oct. 2025 There was also some encouraging news for the future, with wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk possibly coming off the Physically Unable to Perform list and practicing after the 49ers return from Houston. Jerry McDonald, Mercury News, 26 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for encouraging

Word History

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of encouraging was in 1593

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Encouraging.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/encouraging. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on encouraging

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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