impending
UK: ɪmˈpɛndɪŋ | US: ɪmˈpɛndɪŋ
adj. about to happen; imminent
adj. looming or threatening (often with negative connotations)
impending = im<upon> + pend<hang> + ing<adjective suffix>
- im (prefix): From Latin in- (upon, into), here meaning "upon" or "toward."
- pend (root): From Latin pendere (to hang), retaining the sense of suspension or looming.
- ing (suffix): Forms present participle adjectives, indicating an ongoing state.
Etymology Origin:
The word "impending" originates from Latin impendēre (to hang over, threaten), combining in- (upon) + pendere (to hang). It originally described something physically suspended overhead, later evolving metaphorically to signify an imminent event, often with a sense of threat or inevitability. The imagery of "hanging over" persists in its modern usage.
The dark clouds signaled an impending storm.
She felt a sense of impending doom as the deadline approached.
The government issued warnings about the impending economic crisis.
His impending retirement made him reflect on his career.
The team prepared for the impending competition with intense training.