impact

im-pact · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    (Noun) The action of one object coming forcibly into contact with another.

  2. 2.

    (Noun) A marked effect or influence.

  3. 3.

    (Verb) To come into forcible contact with another object.

  4. 4.

    (Verb) To have a strong effect on something or someone.

Forms

plural: impacts

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    make an impact — to have a noticeable effect
  • •
    on impact — at the moment of collision
  • •
    environmental impact — effect on the natural world
  • •
    high-impact — having a strong effect

Related words

Antonyms: ineffectiveness, insignificance
See also: collision, effect, influence
Synonyms: collision, effect, influence

Etymology

From Latin impactus, past participle of impingere ("to push against, strike against"), from in- ("into") + pangere ("to fix, fasten"). The noun appeared in English in the 17th century; the verb use became common in the 20th century.