Encouraging is both a verb and an adjective.
As a verb (present participle of encourage), it means to give support or confidence to someone.
Example:
She was encouraging her son to play basketball.
As an adjective, it describes something that gives hope or confidence.
Example:
The teacher’s feedback was very encouraging.
Author's summary:
"Encouraging" functions both as a participle verb and an adjective, meaning to give support or offer hope, illustrated by everyday examples like motivating someone or positive feedback.