What does impounded mean? Explained

Pronunciation

/ɪmˈpaʊndɪd/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Verb

Definition

To take or seize something, especially an animal, officially and hold it in a special place, often until the owner pays a fee or fine, or to confiscate something, usually as a punishment or penalty.

Examples

• The police impounded the car for parking illegally.
• The animal control impounded the dog for not having a license.

Synonyms

• Seize
• Confiscate

Antonyms

• Release

Additional Information

Impounding is often used as a means of enforcing laws and regulations, such as traffic laws or animal control ordinances. It can also be used to protect the public from dangerous or nuisance animals.

In some cases, impounded items or animals may be sold or auctioned off if the owner fails to claim them.

Impounding can also be used in a broader sense, referring to the seizure of property or assets as a result of a legal action or court order.

Etymology

The word “impound” comes from the Old French “emponder,” meaning “to seize or take into custody.”

Usage Notes

Be careful when using “impound” in context, as it can have different connotations depending on the situation. For example, impounding an animal may be seen as a necessary measure, while impounding a person’s property may be seen as an infringement on their rights.

Cultural References

The concept of impounding has been featured in various forms of media, such as in police procedurals or animal control documentaries.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “Impound the car” (meaning to seize a vehicle as a form of punishment or penalty)
• “Impounded for non-payment” (meaning an item or animal has been seized due to non-payment of a fee or fine)

Related Words or Phrases

• Seize
• Confiscate
• Impoundment

Collocations

• Impound a vehicle
• Impound an animal
• Impound property

Frequency of Use

The word “impound” is moderately common in modern language, often used in formal or official contexts such as law enforcement or government agencies.

Common Misspellings

• Impoumd
• Impounde
• Impaund