IMPETUS Definition & Meaning

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impetus

[ im-pi-tuhs ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

plural impetuses.

a moving force; impulse; stimulus:
The grant for building the opera house gave impetus to the city's cultural life.
Synonyms: , ,
(broadly) the momentum of a moving body, especially with reference to the cause of motion.

impetus

/ ˈɪ��ɪ��ə�� /

noun

an impelling movement or force; incentive or impulse; stimulus
physics the force that sets a body in motion or that tends to resist changes in a body's motion

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51�Թ� History and Origins

Origin of impetus¹

First recorded in 1650–60; from Latin: “an attack,” literally, “a rushing into,” perhaps by haplology from unattested impetitus (though the expected form would be unattested ��ī�ٳܲ�; appetite ), equivalent to ��ī-, variant stem of impetere “to attack” ( im- im- ¹ + petere “to make for, assault”) + -tus suffix of verb action

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51�Թ� History and Origins

Origin of impetus¹

C17: from Latin: attack, from impetere to assail, from im- (in) + petere to make for, seek out

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

A decision hasn't been made but the prime minister is again, his team indicate, trying to use the jeopardy around the world as an impetus to push the government machine harder.

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But, like Hart, Rashford can see how a change of scenery has provided the impetus for improvement.

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The impetus for an independent regulator has been years in the making, with several lower division clubs subjected to financial mismanagement and. in some cases like Bury and Macclesfield Town, complete collapse.

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However, the prospect of further falls could give impetus to lenders to cut their rates for new borrowers.

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The play, which radically recasts the fraternal relationship, developed far beyond its originating impetus.

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