imprinting
|im-print-ing|
/ɪmˈprɪntɪŋ/
(imprint)
lasting mark
Etymology
'imprint' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'imprimere,' where 'in-' meant 'in/on' and 'primere' (from 'premere') meant 'to press'.
'imprint' changed from Old French 'empreindre' into Middle English forms such as 'imprinten' and eventually became the modern English word 'imprint' (and by extension 'imprinting').
Initially it meant 'to press into or onto' (a physical pressing). Over time the meaning broadened to include 'to leave a mark or impression' and figuratively 'to fix something in the mind' (as in psychological imprinting).
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a rapid and relatively permanent learning process occurring in a brief period early in the life of an animal, by which it forms an attachment (especially used in ethology).
Imprinting in many bird species causes the chicks to follow the first moving object they see.
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Noun 2
a mark, pattern, or depression made by pressing; an impression left on a surface.
The old coin left an imprint on the clay.
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Noun 3
a lasting effect or influence on someone's mind or character; the state of being firmly fixed in memory or personality.
The early years of schooling left a strong imprinting on his approach to learning.
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Last updated: 2025/09/24 19:33