Definition of imperilnext
as in to endanger
to place in danger a single mistake could imperil the lives of everyone involved in the military operation

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of imperil Providers told The Times that the funding freeze could imperil child-care centers, many of which operate on slim margins. Daniel Miller, Los Angeles Times, 10 Jan. 2026 While the Academy’s increasingly international membership suggests the Neon release is not necessarily imperiled ahead of Oscar nomination voting, the absence is nonetheless significant. Jordan Moreau, Variety, 7 Jan. 2026 His critical optimism, rooted in a rigorous scientific worldview and a deeply humanistic sensibility, is imperiled today in a cultural moment marked by broad skepticism of scientific research and the promise of higher education. Joshua Bennett, The Atlantic, 2 Jan. 2026 The slender but powerful book takes place over the course of a week, when Ma’s plans are suddenly imperiled while Boomba seizes the chance to make up for his past mistakes and help his family. Stuart Miller, Oc Register, 22 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for imperil
Recent Examples of Synonyms for imperil
Verb
  • While the latest census from 2021 estimates nearly double that number now soar through the valleys, these tropical birds are still critically endangered according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
    Brianna Randall, Forbes.com, 23 Jan. 2026
  • Listed as endangered since 1967, San Francisco garter snakes are found only on the Peninsula and in northern Santa Cruz County.
    Pepper St. Clair, Mercury News, 22 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Deep divisions over the conflict in the Middle East threatened to tear the campus in two.
    Chicago Tribune, Twin Cities, 25 Jan. 2026
  • Justin Mesael Novoa, 21, was charged with making threatening interstate communications, including threats to assault or murder a federal law enforcement officer, the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced Thursday.
    Jasmine Baehr, FOXNews.com, 24 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Imperil.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/imperil. Accessed 25 Jan. 2026.

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