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)

See imprinting defined for kids

Recent Examples of imprinting from the Web

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.

First Known Use of imprinting

1937

in the meaning defined above

See Words from the same year

NEW! Time Traveler

Medical Dictionary

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