Impregnably Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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impregnably
[ɪmˈprɛɡnəblɪ ]
Definition
strength, security
Impregnably refers to something that is impossible to enter or breach; it suggests extreme strength or security. The term is often used to describe fortifications, mental states, or situations that are impervious to attack or influence.
Synonyms
impenetrable, indestructible, unassailable.
Examples of usage
- The fortress was built to be impregnably defended against invaders.
- Her resolve was impregnably strong, making her resistant to peer pressure.
- The security system was designed to be impregnably secure.
- They believed that the walls of the castle were impregnably thick.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Military History
- Throughout history, castles were built to be impregnable against attacks, featuring thick walls and deep moats.
- The concept of impregnable fortifications was central to military strategy in the Middle Ages.
- Famous examples include the fortress of Masada in Israel, which remains a symbol of impenetrability.
Architecture
- Modern architecture often incorporates the idea of being impregnable with innovative materials that enhance security.
- Buildings designed as impregnable use techniques such as reinforced concrete and blast-resistant designs.
- The Pentagon is an example of a building designed with security in mind, demonstrating the concept in practice.
Psychology
- The idea of feeling impregnable can be linked to a strong sense of confidence and mental resilience.
- People often associate feelings of security with their environment, influencing their mental well-being.
- In cognitive behavioral therapy, creating a ‘safe space’ for individuals can foster a feeling of mental impregnableness.
Pop Culture
- In action movies, protagonists often find themselves in situations where they must protect impregnable locations.
- Video games often feature levels or fortresses labeled as impregnable, challenging players to breach them.
- The term is used in literature and film to describe characters or alliances that seem unbeatable or unassailable.
Origin of 'impregnably'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'impregnabilis', where 'in' means 'not' and 'pregnabilis' implies 'able to be entered'.
- In English, it began to be used in the late 15th century to describe strong fortifications.
- The root 'pregnare' means 'to seize', connecting the word to notions of strength and impenetrability.
The word 'impregnably' derives from the adjective 'impregnable,' which first appeared in the English language in the late 15th century. It comes from the Latin word 'impregnabilis,' meaning 'not able to be taken by force,' where 'im-' is a prefix meaning 'not' and 'pregnabilis' derives from 'pregnare,' meaning 'to seize or take.' Initially used in military contexts to describe fortifications or strongholds, the term's application has broadened to describe anything that is effectively resistant to penetration or influence. The adverbial form 'impregnably' emphasizes this quality, highlighting the definitive nature of the adjective.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #41,223, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.