Impregnate: meaning, definitions and examples

Used specifically to describe the action of making a female (human or animal) carry a baby or babies. Often used in medical, scientific, or formal contexts. Can also have a negative connotation if used inappropriately or insensitively.

• The doctor explained how the treatment would help to impregnate the patient.
• In the wild, certain animals have unique ways to impregnate their partners.

Used in both biological and agricultural contexts. In biology, it refers to the process of a sperm fertilizing an egg. In agriculture, it refers to adding nutrients to soil to help plant growth.

• The scientists studied how the sperm fertilizes the egg.
• Farmers fertilize their fields to improve crop yields.

Describes the state of carrying a developing embryo or fetus within the female body. Commonly used in both casual and formal conversations.

• She announced that she is pregnant.
• The ultrasound confirmed that the cat is pregnant with kittens.

Primarily used when talking about animals, especially in the context of selective breeding or raising livestock. It can also be used when discussing plants or organisms in a biological context.

• The farmers breed horses for racing.
• Selective breeding has led to various dog breeds with specific traits.

This word is often used in a biological or technical sense, specifically relating to making something pregnant or saturating a material deeply with a substance.

• The scientist aimed to impregnate the fabric with a water-repellent solution.
• They found out that the queen bee was impregnated by the strongest drone.

Often used to describe the process of introducing a particular quality, flavor, or element into something through a gradual process.

• The chef likes to infuse olive oil with garlic and herbs.
• Her speech was infused with warmth and sincerity.

Used to describe something spreading or being present throughout an area or substance, suggesting high penetration or saturation.

• The scent of fresh flowers permeated the entire house.
• Optimism seemed to permeate the community after the announcement.

Generally used in a more abstract sense to indicate the introduction of a quality, feeling, or value into something or someone.

• The artist managed to imbue her paintings with a sense of melancholy.
• Their teachings imbue the students with a deep sense of respect.