Impact Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈɪmpækt/

Part of Speech

Noun or Verb

Definition

Impact: A striking or violent encounter between two or more objects, forces, or events, resulting in a change of motion or a collision, often leaving a mark, effect, or impression.

Examples

The meteor’s impact created a crater in the planet’s surface.
The football player’s impact on the game was undeniable.

Synonyms

Collision
Crash
Impinge

Antonyms

Scrape
Fraction

Etymology

The word “Impact” originated from the Latin “impactor,” meaning “to strike.” It was first used in the 17th century to describe the effect of a body’s movement on another body.

Usage Notes

The word “Impact” can be used as both a noun and a verb, depending on the context. As a noun, it refers to the consequence or effect of a collision or force. As a verb, it means to collide or strike with force.

Cultural References

The term “Impact” has been used in various forms of media, including movies, books, and music. For example, “Impact” is the title of a 1980 film starring Barbara Hershey and a 2021 movie starring Idris Elba.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

“Make an impact” – to have a significant effect or impression.
“Impact on the environment” – to have a significant effect or influence on the environment.

Related Words or Phrases

Collision
Crash
Impinge
Outcome

Collocations

Impact damage
Impact force
Impact zone

Frequency of Use

The word “Impact” is commonly used in various contexts, including science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). It’s an essential term in fields like physics, mechanics, and computer science.

Common Misspellings

Impect
Impac