Imprints: meaning, definitions and examples

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imprints

[ˈɪmprɪnts ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

on a surface

Imprints are marks or impressions left on a surface by an object. These marks are often unique and can provide valuable information about the object that made them.

Synonyms

impressions, indentations, marks.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
imprints	Use when referring to clear, often permanent, marks left on a surface by pressing an object into it forcefully. The fossil imprints were clearly visible on the rock. Her fingers left imprints on the wet clay.
marks	A general term for any visible sign left on a surface, which can be positive or negative; it is the broadest term in this group. The pencil marks on the wall need to be cleaned. She noticed red marks on her skin after wearing tight shoes all day.
impressions	Use when referring to a general feeling or understanding about someone or something, often after a brief encounter or experience; can also refer to a mark or indentation. His first impression of the city was very positive. The child's handprints left a faint impression on the sand.
indentations	Use to describe small, sunken areas or marks made by something pressing into the surface, often referring to repetitive or patterned marks. The keys left indentations in the soft leather seat. The page had many indentations from where the writer pressed too hard with the pen.

Examples of usage

The imprints on the wet sand indicated that someone had walked there.
The imprints of the dinosaur footprints were preserved in the rock.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

memory

Imprints, as a verb, refer to the action of creating a lasting memory or impression in someone's mind. This memory can often be difficult to erase and may have a significant impact on the individual.

Synonyms

embed, engrave, fix.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
imprints	Imprints are usually used to describe marks or impressions left by an object pressing onto a surface. Often used in scientific, artistic, or descriptive contexts. The dinosaur left its imprints in the mud. She studied the imprints of ancient coins.
engrave	Engrave is typically used for carving or etching words or designs onto a hard surface. Frequently used in jewelry, artwork, and memorials. They decided to engrave their names on the wedding rings. The artist will engrave the metal plate with the design.
embed	Embed is often used to describe something being firmly and deeply fixed in a surrounding mass. Commonly used in technology, context of ideas or emotions, or physical attachment. He managed to embed the video into the webpage. The memory was embedded deeply in her mind.
fix	Fix refers to making something stable or attaching it securely. Often used in ordinary situations describing physical attachment, repairs, or solutions. He needs to fix the loose bolt on the machine. Jane will fix the broken chair.

Examples of usage

The traumatic event imprinted itself on her mind.
The song imprinted a sense of nostalgia in his heart.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'imprint' comes from the Latin word 'imprimere', which means 'to press into'.
Historically, 'imprint' was particularly used in printing technology to describe the pressing of ink onto paper.

Science

In the field of biology, imprints can refer to fossilized remains, like dinosaur footprints preserved in sediment.
Environmental science examines imprints left by animals, helping researchers understand migration patterns.

Psychology

The term 'imprint' is also used in psychology to describe a phase in some animals where they form bonds during a critical period.
In human development, imprints can refer to lasting impressions made during childhood that influence future behavior.

Art

Artists can create imprints by pressing materials onto surfaces, like creating prints from leaves or other objects.
In photography, photographers can create imprints by capturing moments that evoke strong emotions or memories.

Literature

In literary works, 'imprint' can symbolize the lasting effects of a character's actions on others’ lives.
Many poets use the concept of imprints to express how experiences leave a mark on the soul or consciousness.

Translations

Translations of the word "imprints" in other languages:

🇵🇹 impressões

🇮🇳 प्रभाव

🇩🇪 Abdrücke

🇮🇩 jejak

🇺🇦 відбитки

🇵🇱 odciski

🇯🇵 印象

🇫🇷 empreintes

🇪🇸 huellas

🇹🇷 izler

🇰🇷 자국

🇸🇦 بصمات

🇨🇿 otisky

🇸🇰 odtlačky

🇨🇳 印记

🇸🇮 odtisi

🇮🇸 far

🇰🇿 іздер

🇬🇪 ნაბიჯები

🇦🇿 izlər

🇲🇽 huellas

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,763, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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21760 celluloid
21761 extirpation
21762 fractionated
21763 imprints
21764 urticaria
21765 shunting
21766 purpura
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