impinge
UK: ɪmˈpɪndʒ | US: ɪmˈpɪndʒ
vi. 1. To have an effect or influence, especially a negative one.
vi. 2. To encroach or infringe upon something.
vt. 3. To strike or collide with something.
impinge = im<upon> + pinge<fasten, strike>
- im (prefix): From Latin in- ("upon, into"), indicating direction or contact.
- pinge (root): From Latin pingere ("to fasten, fix, or strike"), though the modern sense evolved through Vulgar Latin pinctiare ("to push").
Etymology Origin:
The word impinge traces back to Latin impingere ("to drive into, strike against"), combining in- ("upon") and pingere ("to fasten or strike"). Over time, its meaning shifted from physical collision (e.g., "strike upon") to metaphorical encroachment (e.g., "infringe"). The root pinge- is rare in English but appears in related words like impact (from impactus). The word’s evolution reflects a blend of physical force and boundary violation.
Loud noises can impinge on your concentration.
The new law must not impinge on citizens' rights.
The car impinged on the sidewalk, damaging a lamppost.
His actions impinged upon her privacy.
The glacier’s movement impinges on the surrounding landscape.