The meaning of TELLING is carrying great weight and producing a marked effect : effective, expressive. How to use telling in a sentence. Synonym Discussion of Telling.

TELLING definition: 1. showing the truth about a situation or showing what someone really thinks: 2. showing the truth…. Learn more.

1. having a marked effect or impact: a telling blow. 2. revealing: a telling smile.

Telling definition: having force or effect; effective; striking.. See examples of TELLING used in a sentence.

If something is telling, it shows the true nature of a person or situation. It was her expression that was the most telling. How a man shaves may be a telling clue to his age.

Nov 5, 2025 · telling (comparative more telling, superlative most telling) Having force, or having a marked effect; weighty, effective.

Definition of telling adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

to narrate (a story, etc.) to (someone): [~ + object] He told a story to the children. [~ + object + object] He told the children a story. [no object] The story tells of the legend of King Arthur.

The word 'telling' comes from the Old English 'tellan', which meant to count, relate, or explain. In Middle English, it evolved to refer to revealing or narrating events, linking it to storytelling.

TELLING meaning: 1 : producing a strong or important effect; 2 : giving information about someone or something without intending to