imprinting

noun

im·print·ing | \ ˈim-ˌprin-tiŋ

, im-ˈprin-\

Definition of imprinting

: a rapid learning process that takes place early in the life of a social animal (such as a goose) and establishes a behavior pattern (such as recognition of and attraction to its own kind or a substitute)

Examples of imprinting in a Sentence

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Considering the deep imprinting of Muppetry on the Google mindset, the TV commercial won’t be the last of the partnership of the Henson’s puppets and the internet giant. — Steven Levy, WIRED, "Why Google Just Can’t Quit the Muppets," 27 Dec. 2011

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'imprinting.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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The first known use of imprinting was in 1937

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More Definitions for imprinting

imprinting

noun

im·print·ing | \ ˈim-ˌprint-iŋ, im-ˈ

Medical Definition of imprinting

1 : a rapid learning process that takes place early in the life of a social animal (as a greylag goose) and establishes a behavior pattern (as recognition of and attraction to its own kind or a substitute)

2 : genomic imprinting