'impulse' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'impulsus,' where 'in-' meant 'into' and 'pellere' meant 'to drive.'

'impulsus' transformed into the French word 'impulser,' and eventually became the modern English word 'impulse' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to drive or push into,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a sudden urge or driving force.'