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Importuned Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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importuned

[ɪmˈpɔːrtjʊn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

persistent request

To importune means to ask someone persistently and urgently for something. This term is often associated with making repeated and insistent requests, typically to the point of annoyance. It can carry a connotation of being overly demanding or intrusive in one's requests.

Synonyms

demand, entreat, insist, urge.

Examples of usage

  • She importuned her friends for help with the project.
  • He was importuning me for a loan every week.
  • The charity organization was importuning the community for donations.
  • They importuned the government for policy changes.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Usage

  • The term has been used in literature since the 16th century, often referring to urgent and unwanted solicitations.
  • Shakespeare used the term in his plays to describe characters who relentlessly pursued others for favors or financial help.
  • In legal contexts, it historically referred to someone making demands that might be seen as excessive or improper.

Literature

  • Charles Dickens often portrayed characters who importuned for help, adding depth to their desperation and human conditions.
  • The character of 'Old Misery' in 'Great Expectations' exemplifies importuning as he seeks assistance from his wealthy acquaintances.
  • Many novels depict importuned figures to highlight social issues, such as poverty and dependency.

Psychology

  • The act of importuning can reveal insights about human behavior, illustrating how desperation influences social interactions.
  • Research shows that repeated requests can lead to annoyance in recipients, potentially changing relationships.
  • Understanding the psychology behind importuning can aid in empathy for those in desperate situations.

Pop Culture

  • Songs often explore themes of importuning, such as requesting love or forgiveness repeatedly until a response is achieved.
  • In various TV shows, characters often importune friends for favors, adding comedic tension to plotlines.
  • Movies frequently depict importuning when characters pursue their dreams against all odds, showcasing resilience.

Origin of 'importuned'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'importunus', meaning 'inopportune' or 'unfitting', connecting it to unexpected requests.
  • It has evolved over centuries, appearing in early English texts to describe persistent begging or urging.
  • The prefix 'im-' indicates negation, while 'portune' relates to suitable times, highlighting its meaning of inappropriate timing.

The word 'importune' comes from the Latin 'importunus', which means 'inopportune, unsuitable.' The root is a combination of 'in-' meaning 'not' and 'portunus' meaning 'convenient' or 'favorable.' This Latin term transitioned into Middle French as 'importuner' before entering the English language in the late 14th century. Initially, it had a more neutral connotation but over time, it took on a more negative sense, suggesting annoyance and persistent pestering. Its usage in legal contexts also implies a relentless pursuit that may infringe upon someone's comfort or rights. The evolution showcases the shift from a general term for urgency to one that often implies a degree of imposition.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,679 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.