Imprints: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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 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.