impress
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1im·press

verb \im-ˈpres\

Definition of IMPRESS

transitive verb
1
a : to apply with pressure so as to imprint
b : to produce (as a mark) by pressure
c : to mark by or as if by pressure or stamping
2
a : to produce a vivid impression of
b : to affect especially forcibly or deeply : gain the admiration or interest of <her honesty impressed us>
intransitive verb
: to produce an impression
im·press·ibil·i·ty \-ˌpre-sə-ˈbi-lə-tē\ noun
im·press·ible \-ˈpre-sə-bəl\ adjective

Origin of IMPRESS

Middle English, from Latin impressus, past participle of imprimere, from in- + premere to press — more at press
First Known Use: 14th century

2im·press

noun \ˈim-ˌpres also im-ˈ\

Definition of IMPRESS

1
: a characteristic or distinctive mark : stamp <the impress of a fresh and vital intelligence is stamped … in his work — Lytton Strachey>
2
: impression, effect <have an impress on history>
3
: the act of impressing
4
a : a mark made by pressure : imprint
b : an image of something formed by or as if by pressure; especially : seal
c : a product of pressure or influence

First Known Use of IMPRESS

1590

3im·press

transitive verb \im-ˈpres\

Definition of IMPRESS

1
: to levy or take by force for public service; especially : to force into naval service
2
a : to procure or enlist by forcible persuasion
b : force <impressed him into a white coat for the Christmas festivities — Nancy Hale>

Origin of IMPRESS

2in- + 3press
First Known Use: 1596

4im·press

noun \ˈim-ˌpres also im-ˈ\

Definition of IMPRESS

First Known Use of IMPRESS

1602

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