Imperilled: meaning, definitions and examples

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imperilled

 

[ ɪmˈpɛr.əld ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

state of danger

Imperilled refers to a state of being in danger or at risk. It often conveys a sense of serious threat to safety or survival. This term is frequently used in environmental discussions where species or habitats are at risk of extinction. Additionally, it can pertain to individuals or groups facing dire circumstances. The word captures both urgency and vulnerability.

Synonyms

at risk, endangered, threatened, vulnerable

Examples of usage

  • The imperilled species needs immediate protection.
  • Their lives were imperilled during the storm.
  • The imperilled environment requires conservation efforts.

Translations

Translations of the word "imperilled" in other languages:

🇵🇹 perigo

🇮🇳 खतरे में

🇩🇪 gefährdet

🇮🇩 terancam

🇺🇦 під загрозою

🇵🇱 zagrożony

🇯🇵 危険にさらされた

🇫🇷 menacé

🇪🇸 en peligro

🇹🇷 tehlikede

🇰🇷 위험에 처한

🇸🇦 مهدد

🇨🇿 ohrožený

🇸🇰 ohrozený

🇨🇳 处于危险中

🇸🇮 ogrožen

🇮🇸 hættu

🇰🇿 қауіпте

🇬🇪 მუქარაში

🇦🇿 təhlükədə

🇲🇽 en peligro

Word origin

The word 'imperilled' is derived from the Latin 'imperare' meaning 'to command' or 'to put in danger.' Its evolution into Middle English involved the adoption of the suffix '-ed,' which forms the past participle of verbs. As the word progressed into modern English, it transformed into an adjective implying a state of being endangerment. The usage of 'imperilled' gained traction in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in contexts concerning wildlife conservation and environmental protection. Increasing awareness around endangered species and habitats has solidified its presence in ecological discussions. Overall, 'imperilled' has come to symbolize a pressing need for intervention and protection in the face of adversity.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,153, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.