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imprint on

B2 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words

To leave a strong, lasting mark or memory on someone.

Literal meaning: To press a print (mark) onto something — the physical act of stamping.

Meanings

1 B2 neutral

(Biology) For a young animal to form a strong social bond with the first moving thing it sees after birth.

"The gosling imprinted on the researcher and followed her everywhere."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 idiomatic neutral

To leave a deep and lasting impression, influence, or memory on someone or something.

"Those early years of travel imprinted on her a lifelong love of other cultures."

Grammar: inseparable
3 B1 neutral

To press or mark a pattern or text onto a surface physically.

"The seal was imprinted on the wax at the bottom of the letter."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Used in two main ways: (1) the biological/psychological sense (baby animals imprinting on the first creature they see), and (2) a more figurative sense of leaving a deep impression. The biological sense is especially associated with Konrad Lorenz's ethology research.

Commonly used with

memory mind brain young chick experience identity

Forms

Base
imprint on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
imprints on
he/she/it
Past simple
imprinted on
yesterday
Past participle
imprinted on
have + pp
-ing form
imprinting on
continuous

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