Impression
ɪmˈprɛʃən
Definitions
3 meaningsAn idea, feeling, or opinion about something or someone, especially one formed without conscious thought or on the basis of limited evidence.
ɪmˈprɛʃən
A feeling or idea that something is like.
Her first impression of the city was that it was very vibrant.
💡 Simply: It's like what you think or feel about something or someone when you first experience them. Like, did the new restaurant give you a good impression? Or, what impression did your first date give you?
👶 For kids: A feeling or thought you get about something when you see or hear it.
More Examples
I got the impression that he was not happy with the decision.
The artist's work made a strong impression on the judges.
How It's Used
"The film left a lasting impression on the audience."
"I got the impression that he wasn't interested in the job."
An imitation of a person or thing, typically for entertainment or comedic effect.
ɪmˈprɛʃən
An imitation of a person or thing, typically for comedic effect.
The actor’s impression of the famous singer was spot-on.
💡 Simply: It's when someone tries to act like another person, like mimicking their voice or actions. Think of a comedian doing an impression of a famous actor.
👶 For kids: Pretending to be someone else, like when you copy someone's voice.
More Examples
He does great impressions of celebrities.
Her skill at doing celebrity impressions is very entertaining.
How It's Used
"The comedian's impression of the president was hilarious."
"He is known for his remarkable impersonations."
An indentation or mark made by pressing something onto a surface.
ɪmˈprɛʃən
An indentation or mark made by pressing.
The impression of the key was clear in the clay.
💡 Simply: It's a mark or shape left behind when something is pressed into a surface. Like when you make a footprint in the sand, or your dentist makes an impression of your teeth.
👶 For kids: A mark left by pressing something into something soft.
More Examples
The forensic team examined the tire tracks to identify the vehicle's make and model by examining the impressions.
The dentist took an impression of her teeth for a new set of dentures.
How It's Used
"The forensic scientists took a detailed impression of the tire tracks."
"The dentist took an impression of my teeth to make a retainer."
Idioms & expressions
make an impression
To cause someone to notice and remember you or something.
"He hoped to make a good impression on his new boss."
under the impression
believing something to be true, especially when it is not.
"I was under the impression that the meeting was cancelled."
From Latin *impressio*, meaning 'a pressing in', from *imprimere* 'to press into'.
Used since the late 14th century, originally referring to the act of pressing or stamping. The meaning related to an idea or feeling developed later.
Memory tip
Think of the initial 'pressing' of an idea into your mind.