Pressing

/ˈprɛs.ɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The act of applying pressure or force to something.
The pressing of the flowers helped to preserve their colors.
A method of preparing something under pressure.
The pressing of the grapes is the first step in making wine.
verb
To apply pressure to something.
He was pressing the button to start the machine.
To flatten or shape something by applying pressure.
She is pressing the fabric to remove all the wrinkles.
adjective
Causing or involving physical pressure.
She used a pressing motion to flatten the dough for the pie.
Urgently important; requiring immediate attention.
The pressing issue of climate change needs to be addressed by world leaders.

Etymology

From the present participle of 'press', derived from Old French 'précier', from Latin 'pressare', meaning to press.

Common Phrases and Expressions

pressing issue:
An issue that is urgent and needs immediate attention.
pressing matter:
A matter that requires urgent action.
pressing concerns:
Concerns that are urgent and significant.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Under pressure or stress.
I'm feeling really pressing with all this work.
A situation that is demanding immediate action.
That situation was so pressing, we had to act fast.