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Imperiling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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imperiling

[ɪmˈpɛrɪlɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

risking danger

To imperil means to put something or someone at risk of harm or danger. It reflects a situation where actions or circumstances threaten safety or wellbeing. The term can apply to various scenarios, including environmental issues, personal safety, or even economic stability. This word often highlights the consequences of reckless behavior or poor decision-making.

Synonyms

endanger, jeopardize, put in danger, risk, threaten.

Examples of usage

  • The company's pollution is imperiling local wildlife.
  • Neglecting safety protocols can imperil the health of workers.
  • The storm's unpredictability may imperil the outdoor event.
  • Ignoring the warning signs could imperil the entire project.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'imperiling'

The term 'imperil' comes from the Middle French word 'imperiller', which means 'to endanger'. This word itself is derived from the Latin 'imperilare', meaning 'to put in danger'. The components of the Latin root include 'in-', a prefix meaning 'in' or 'on', and 'periculum', which means 'danger' or 'risk'. The usage of the word has evolved over the centuries, maintaining the core concept of risking harm. It gained prominence in English literature in the 15th century and has since been used to address various contexts where safety and risk are concerns. In modern times, 'imperil' is frequently used in environmental discussions, safety assessments, and risk management scenarios, reflecting society's growing awareness of the consequences of harmful actions.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,401, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.