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Definition of sobering

sobering

/ˈsoʊbərɪŋ/
so · ber · ing
Adverb:soberingly
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sobering Lexical Profile

sobering Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Creating a more serious, sensible, or solemn mood, especially by confronting someone with a harsh reality.

Example

"The documentary offered a sobering look at the long-term economic consequences of the drought."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for sobering

• Nearby Words

sobat
sobbingly
sober
sobering
soberly
soberness
sobralia

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed from the verb 'sober' plus the participial suffix '-ing'. The root word derives from Old French 'sobre', from Latin 'sobrius' (not drunk, temperate, sensible).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Sobering. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/sobering
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