plural impressions
1
: the effect or influence that something or someone has on a person's thoughts or feelings
Her words made a strong impression (on us).
The candidate made a favorable/positive/good/bad impression.
What was your impression of the candidate? [=what did you think of the candidate?]
My first impression of him was that he was a kind and thoughtful young man.
First impressions are important but can be misleading.
In her journal, she recorded her impressions of the city.
Her kindness left a lasting impression on her students.
I was trying to make an impression. = I was trying to make a good impression.
He's trying to avoid (giving) the impression that he's insensitive.
a fleeting impression
2
: an idea or belief that is usually not clear or certain
It was my impression [=I thought] that admission was free.
I'm sorry if I gave you the wrong impression. [=I'm sorry if I misled you]
I got/had the distinct impression that they didn't mean to stay long.
They gave (us) the impression that they didn't mean to stay long.
an erroneous/false/mistaken impression
I was under the impression [=I thought] that admission was free.
3
: an appearance or suggestion of something
The garden is designed in tiers to give/create the impression of steps. [=the garden is designed so that it looks like steps]
His lifestyle conveyed the impression of great wealth. [=his lifestyle led people to believe that he was very wealthy]
4
: something (such as a design or a footprint) made by pressing or stamping a surface
The child used her hand to make an impression in the mud.
5
: an imitation of a famous person that is done for entertainment
He does a funny impression [=impersonation] of Elvis Presley.
Cite this Entry
“Impression.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/impression. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.
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