Imperviousness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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imperviousness

[ɪmˈpɜː.vi.əs.nəs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

resistance to external influences

Imperviousness refers to the quality or state of being unaffected or untouched by external influences or forces. It implies a strong resistance to penetration, damage, or harm.

Synonyms

immunity, insusceptibility, resistance.

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Word Description / Examples
imperviousness

This is a repeat word and should ideally be included only once. Use the entry provided earlier.

resistance

Suitable for describing the act of opposing or withstanding something, such as physical force, disease, or social pressure. Can have a positive or negative connotation depending on context.

  • The antibiotic resistance of the bacteria is a growing concern in medicine.
  • Their resistance to the new policy was strong and vocal.
insusceptibility

Often used in a medical or psychological context to describe a state of being not easily affected by disease or influence.

  • His insusceptibility to the virus made him an ideal candidate for the experiment.
  • Her emotional insusceptibility was mistaken for indifference.
immunity

Best used when referring to the ability to resist illness or harmful effects, either in a biological or legal context.

  • Children are more likely to get sick because their immunity is still developing.
  • He was granted immunity from prosecution in exchange for his testimony.

Examples of usage

  • The imperviousness of the material to water made it ideal for outdoor use.
  • His imperviousness to criticism allowed him to focus on his goals without being discouraged.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Certain materials like rubber and plastic exhibit imperviousness, making them ideal for waterproof products.
  • In ecology, impervious surfaces (like concrete) prevent water absorption, which can lead to flooding.

Psychology

  • Individuals described as having imperviousness to criticism may show resilience, often linked to strong self-esteem.
  • The concept is sometimes discussed in terms of emotional intelligence, where a person becomes less affected by negativity around them.

Literature

  • In literature, characters with imperviousness often face great challenges but remain unchanged, serving as symbols of strength.
  • Many classic heroes demonstrate imperviousness, embodying themes of endurance against adversities.

Pop Culture

  • In superhero films, characters often display imperviousness, representing ideals of protection and invulnerability, such as Superman.
  • The concept appears in various stories where protagonists are immune to external pressures or challenges, enhancing their heroic image.

Origin of 'imperviousness'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'impervius,' meaning 'not passable,' combining 'in-' (not) and 'pervius' (able to pass through).
  • It has been used in English since the 17th century, originally describing materials that liquids cannot penetrate.

The word 'imperviousness' is derived from the Latin word 'impervius', which means 'not allowing entrance'. It first appeared in English in the early 17th century. The concept of imperviousness has been valued throughout history in various contexts, from materials science to personal resilience.