Impel: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• Derived from the Latin word 'impellere', meaning to push or drive forward.
• The prefix 'im-' means 'into', while 'pellere' means 'to drive' or 'to push'.
• First recorded use in English dates back to the 15th century, showing long-standing usage in literature and communication.

Psychology

• Motivational theories often discuss inner drives that impel individuals to act, connecting to needs and desires.
• Feeling impelled to act can stem from both external pressures and internal goals, affecting decision-making processes.
• This word relates closely to concepts of motivation, where individuals are driven by emotions or circumstances to achieve specific outcomes.

Literature

• Many classic and modern literary works feature characters who are impelled by personal crises to embark on transformative journeys.
• Famous authors often illustrate how societal expectations can impel protagonists into action, reflecting the tension between individual desire and communal obligation.
• In Shakespearean plays, characters often face internal dilemmas that impel them towards tragic or heroic actions.

Philosophy

• Philosophers discuss the concept of free will and determinism, exploring how impulse can both guide and challenge one's independence in decision-making.
• The idea of being impelled towards ethical actions is often examined in moral philosophy, delving into how conscience can drive behavior.
• Existentialists often view being impelled as a fundamental aspect of human experience, questioning what drives individuals towards authenticity.

Pop Culture

• In popular films, characters who are impelled by love or loss often drive the emotional core of the story.
• Musicians frequently express feelings of being impelled to create or share their art through lyrics, highlighting the power of internal inspiration.
• The phrase 'impel to action' is often used in motivational speeches and self-help literature to encourage listeners to pursue their dreams.

Positioned at #24,415, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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