First Known Use: 1581
Dictionary
impose
verb im·pose \im-ˈpōz\
: to cause (something, such as a tax, fine, rule, or punishment) to affect someone or something by using your authority
: to establish or create (something unwanted) in a forceful or harmful way
: to force someone to accept (something or yourself)
im·posedim·pos·ing
Full Definition of IMPOSE
transitive verb
1
a : to establish or apply by authority <impose a tax> <impose new restrictions> <impose penalties> b : to establish or bring about as if by force <those limits imposed by our own inadequacies — C. H. Plimpton>
3
: pass off <impose fake antiques on the public>
4
: to force into the company or on the attention of another <impose oneself on others>
intransitive verb
: to take unwarranted advantage of something <imposed on his good nature>
— im·pos·er noun
See impose defined for English-language learners
See impose defined for kids
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Origin of IMPOSE
Middle French imposer, from Latin imponere, literally, to put upon (perfect indicative imposui), from in- + ponere to put — more at position
Rhymes with IMPOSE
IMPOSE Defined for Kids
impose
verb im·pose \im-ˈpōz\
im·posedim·pos·ing
Definition of IMPOSE for Kids
1
: to establish or apply as a charge or penalty <The judge imposed a fine.>
2
: to force someone to accept or put up with <Don't impose your beliefs on me.>
3
: to ask for more than is fair or reasonable : take unfair advantage <Guests imposed on his good nature.>
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