taking
9 synonyms and 2 antonyms for taking, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Charming or attractive in a way that draws people in.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use taking
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From take plus the suffix -ing.
Full origin of taking →Frequently asked questions
What does “taking” mean?
The word “taking” means charming or attractive in a way that draws people in. In plain terms, as an adjective, attractive or appealing; as a noun (often plural "takings"), money a business has earned.
How do you pronounce “taking”?
“Taking” is pronounced TAY-kihng (/ˈteɪkɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “taking” in a sentence?
Here is “taking” used in a sentence: “She had a taking smile that put everyone at ease.”
What is another word for “taking”?
Words with a similar meaning to “taking” include acquisition.
What is the opposite of “taking”?
The opposite of “taking” — its antonyms — are bestowal and restitution.
What part of speech is “taking”?
Depending on how it is used, “taking” can be an adjective and a noun.
Is “taking” a common word?
“Taking” is a very common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “taking” have?
“Taking” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: charming or attractive in a way that draws people in.
What does 'taking' mean as an adjective?
As an adjective, "taking" describes someone or something charming and attractive in a way that draws people in, as in a taking smile or a taking manner. It is a somewhat old-fashioned, literary use. Far more often, "taking" is simply the -ing form of the verb "take," as in "taking a photo."
Is 'taking' a positive word?
In its adjective sense, yes. Calling a person or their manner "taking" is a compliment, close to charming, winning, or appealing. It suggests an attractive quality that naturally draws others in. The word carries warmth rather than criticism, though today it sounds a little dated compared with everyday alternatives like "charming."
What is an example of 'taking' used this way?
You might read that "she had a taking way about her" or that a child has "a taking little smile." In each case, "taking" means charming and appealing, a quality that attracts people. The phrasing feels literary or old-fashioned, so in modern speech most people would simply say "charming" or "attractive."