Impact

Definition

Impact is a noun and verb. As a noun, it refers to the effect or influence of one thing on another, or a collision between two objects. As a verb, it means to have a strong effect on something or to hit with force.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɪm.pækt/ (noun), /ɪmˈpækt/ (verb)
• Respelling: IM-pakt (noun), im-PAKT (verb)

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɪm.pækt/ (noun), /ɪmˈpækt/ (verb)
• Respelling: IM-pakt (noun), im-PAKT (verb)

Etymology

The word "impact" originates from the Latin "impactus," meaning "pressed closely, driven in," derived from "impingere," meaning "to push against." It entered the English language in the early 17th century.

Derivatives

• Impactful (adjective)
• Impaction (noun)
• Impingement (noun)
• Impact-resistant (adjective)
• Impactfulness (noun)

Synonyms

• Effect
• Influence
• Collision

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "impact" is widely used in both physical and metaphorical contexts. For example, "The policy had a significant impact on the economy," or "The meteor's impact left a large crater."

Related Terms

• Effect: A change or result brought about by an action.
• Force: Strength or energy exerted or applied.
• Collision: An instance of two or more objects coming together with force.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The effect or influence of one thing on another: Describes the results of an action or event.
  • Example: "The new law had a profound impact on businesses."
• A collision between two objects: Refers to a physical encounter or contact.
  • Example: "The car's impact caused significant damage."

Verb

• To have a strong effect on something: Indicates influence or change brought about by an action.
  • Example: "Her leadership impacted the company's direction."
• To hit with force: Describes a physical striking or collision.
  • Example: "The asteroid impacted the planet's surface."