Impounded Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐จ
impounded
[ษชmหpaสndษชd ]
Definition
legal action
Impounded refers to the act of taking possession of something, typically by legal authority. This process often applies to vehicles, animals, or property that are held by law enforcement due to violations of regulations or laws. For example, if a car is parked illegally, it may be impounded by the police. The impounding process is crucial for maintaining order and ensuring compliance with civic rules.
Synonyms
captured, confiscated, seized.
Examples of usage
- The police impounded his car for parking in a no-parking zone.
- After the accident, the truck was impounded until the investigation was complete.
- The animal control team impounded the stray dog until it could be adopted.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'impounded'
The word 'impound' originates from the Old French word 'empoundrer', which means to put into a pound, a reference to holding animals. The term evolved in English to represent the legal act of seizing or taking possession of items by an authority. Its usage has broadened since the 14th century, expanding beyond just animals to include vehicles and various forms of property. The historical context highlights the governance and regulation of personal property, emphasizing safeguards provided by legal systems to control and manage possession in the broader society.