Dictionary

imperil

verb im·per·il \im-ˈper-əl, -ˈpe-rəl\

: to put (something or someone) in a dangerous situation

im·per·iled or im·per·illedim·per·il·ing or im·per·il·ling

Full Definition of IMPERIL

transitive verb

: to bring into peril : endanger

— im·per·il·ment \-mənt\ noun

See imperil defined for English-language learners

See imperil defined for kids

15th century

Synonyms: adventure, compromise, gamble (with), hazard, endanger, jeopard, jeopardize, menace, peril, risk, venture

IMPERILMENT Defined for Kids

verb im·per·il \im-ˈper-əl\

im·per·iled or im·per·illedim·per·il·ing or im·per·il·ling

: to place in great danger <They rescued their imperiled comrades.>

Next Word in the Dictionary: imperiousPrevious Word in the Dictionary: imperial yellowAll Words Near: imperil

What made you want to look up imperil? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears