touching

1 of 2

adjective

touch·​ing ˈtə-chiŋ 

: capable of arousing emotions of tenderness or compassion

touchingly adverb

touching

2 of 2

preposition

: in reference to : concerning

Synonyms of touching

Adjective

• adjacent
• neighboring
• adjoining
• closest

Preposition

• regarding
• concerning
• toward
• about
• on
• of

Choose the Right Synonym for touching

moving, impressive, poignant, affecting, touching, pathetic mean having the power to produce deep emotion.

moving may apply to any strong emotional effect including thrilling, agitating, saddening, or calling forth pity or sympathy.

a moving appeal for contributions

impressive implies compelling attention, admiration, wonder, or conviction.

an impressive list of achievements

poignant applies to what keenly or sharply affects one's sensitivities.

a poignant documentary on the homeless

affecting is close to moving but most often suggests pathos.

an affecting deathbed reunion

touching implies arousing tenderness or compassion.

the touching innocence in a child's eyes

pathetic implies moving to pity or sometimes contempt.

pathetic attempts to justify misconduct

Examples of touching in a Sentence

Adjective

touching lots in the housing development will eventually be separated by hedges for privacy

a touching movie about two lost animals who try to find their way home

Preposition

there has been an objection touching the last of the proposed new bylaws

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

At trial, it was made apparent that Benevides inappropriate touching was complemented by inappropriate comments. —Flint McColgan, Boston Herald, 30 Apr. 2026

Allen later shared the touching moment with her followers on Instagram, posting a clip from the show along with a caption that captured her excitement. —Virginia Chamlee, PEOPLE, 28 Apr. 2026

In one of the most touching parts of her sensational 90-minute performance, the singer invited Green to join her onstage alongside Little Big Town (who performed earlier in the day). —Charisma Madarang, Rolling Stone, 27 Apr. 2026

But 48 hours prior to Ratcliffe’s return to Manchester, Carrick’s side beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge to move within touching distance of Champions League qualification. —Laurie Whitwell, New York Times, 26 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

circa 1586, in the meaning defined above

Preposition

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for touching

• clutching
• retouching

Kids Definition

touching

adjective

touch·​ing

ˈtəch-iŋ

: causing a feeling of tenderness or pity

a touching story

touchingly adverb