taking

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.

“Taking” is pronounced TAY-kihng (/ˈteɪkɪŋ/ in IPA).

Here is “taking” used in a sentence: “She had a taking smile that put everyone at ease.”

Words with a similar meaning to “taking” include acquisition.

The opposite of “taking” — its antonyms — are bestowal and restitution.

Depending on how it is used, “taking” can be an adjective and a noun.

“Taking” is a very common word in modern English.

“Taking” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: charming or attractive in a way that draws people in.

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."

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."

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."