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Impinging Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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impinging

[ɪmˈpɪndʒɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

physical contact

Impinging refers to the action of coming into contact with something or to strike against it. It often describes a scenario where one object interferes or impacts another, typically resulting in a physical or figurative effect.

Synonyms

colliding, impacting, striking.

Examples of usage

  • The rain was impinging on the roof, creating a rhythmic sound.
  • The collision resulted in the impinging of both vehicles.
  • Strong winds can impinge on the stability of tall structures.
Context #2 | Verb

influence

To impinge can also mean to have an effect or influence, especially in a negative way. This usage is often seen in discussions about rules, rights, or freedoms.

Synonyms

encroach, infringe, interfere.

Examples of usage

  • The new regulations may impinge on personal freedoms.
  • Her decisions should not impinge on your rights.
  • Societal norms sometimes impinge upon individual expression.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, impinging can describe particles or waves striking a surface, such as raindrops hitting the ground.
  • In ecology, it can refer to how species interact within their environments, impacting growth and behavior.

Psychology

  • Impinging can refer to how external factors, like stress or relationships, influence your mental state.
  • The concept relates to understanding how different experiences can put pressure on decision-making processes.

Literature

  • In literature, authors often use the idea of impinging as a metaphor for how characters' actions affect one another.
  • Classic stories may depict the way one person's choices impinge on the lives of others, driving the plot forward.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often depict characters whose decisions impinge on the lives of those around them, creating dramatic tension.
  • The concept is frequently explored in songs, where one person's love or pain affects another’s experience.

Origin of 'impinging'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'impingere,' where 'in-' means 'upon' and 'pangere' means 'to strike.'
  • Over time, the word evolved in English to take on more figurative meanings beyond physical impact.

The word 'impinge' originates from the Latin word 'impingere', which meant 'to drive or strike against'. This term is derived from 'in-', meaning 'upon', and 'pangere', meaning 'to strike or fasten'. The evolution of the term has retained this core meaning of striking against or having an effect on something. The usage of 'impinge' in English began around the early 17th century and has since expanded to cover both physical impacts and figurative influences in various contexts. Its journey through the English language reflects a blend of physicality and abstraction, illustrating how language evolves to encompass both tangible and intangible interactions.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,880, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.