Entry 1 sense Webster, 1913 Arresting /(ăr*rĕst"ĭng)/ · Ar·rest·ing · IPA /əˈɹɛstɪŋ/ 01 a. Striking; attracting attention; impressive. 1. Striking; attracting attention; impressive. “This most solemn and arresting occurrence.” — J. H. Newman.