Dictionary
1impulse
verb im·pulse \ˈim-ˌpəls, im-ˈ\
im·pulsedim·puls·ing
Definition of IMPULSE
transitive verb
: to give an impulse to
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First Known Use of IMPULSE
1611
2impulse
noun im·pulse \ˈim-ˌpəls\
: a sudden strong desire to do something
: a small amount of energy that moves from one area to another
Full Definition of IMPULSE
1
2
3
a : a sudden spontaneous inclination or incitement to some usually unpremeditated action b : a propensity or natural tendency usually other than rational
4
a : the product of the average value of a force and the time during which it acts : the change in momentum produced by the force b : pulse 4a
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Origin of IMPULSE
Latin impulsus, from impellere to impel
First Known Use: 1647
Related to IMPULSE
- Synonyms
- boost, encouragement, goad, impetus, incentive, incitation, incitement, instigation, momentum, motivation, provocation, spur, stimulant, stimulus, yeast, shot in the arm
- Antonyms
- counterincentive, disincentive
Synonym Discussion of IMPULSE
motive, impulse, incentive, inducement, spur, goad mean a stimulus to action. motive implies an emotion or desire operating on the will and causing it to act <a motive for the crime>. impulse suggests a driving power arising from personal temperament or constitution <buying on impulse>. incentive applies to an external influence (as an expected reward) inciting to action <a bonus was offered as an incentive>. inducement suggests a motive prompted by the deliberate enticements or allurements of another <offered a watch as an inducement to subscribe>. spur applies to a motive that stimulates the faculties or increases energy or ardor <fear was a spur to action>. goad suggests a motive that keeps one going against one's will or desire <thought insecurity a goad to worker efficiency>.
Other Psychology Terms
IMPULSE Defined for Kids
impulse
noun im·pulse \ˈim-ˌpəls\
Definition of IMPULSE for Kids
1
: a force that starts a body into motion
2
: the motion produced by a starting force
3
: a strong sudden desire to do something <She resisted the impulse to shout.>
4
Medical Dictionary
impulse
noun im·pulse \ˈim-ˌpəls\
Medical Definition of IMPULSE
1
: a wave of excitation transmitted through tissues and especially nerve fibers and muscles that results in physiological activity or inhibition
2
a : a sudden spontaneous inclination or incitement to some usually unpremeditated action <some uncontrollable impulse…may have driven the defendant to the commission of the murderous act—B. N. Cardozo> b : a propensity or natural tendency usually other than rational <the fundamental impulse of self-expression—Havelock Ellis>
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