Meaning & Definition of word "Imminent"
Imminent
/ˈɪmɪnənt/
adjective:
- 1. About to happen; impending.
- Example: The storm clouds gathered ominously, signaling that a downpour was imminent.
- 2. Close at hand; near.
- Example: She felt that a significant change in her life was imminent.
- 3. Likely to occur in the very near future.
- Example: The city issued a warning about the imminent arrival of the hurricane.
- 4. Occurring very soon, typically within a short time frame.
- Example: With deadline approaching, the team worked late into the night, knowing that their project’s completion was imminent.
Etymology
●Late Latin 'imminentem', present participle of 'imminēre', meaning 'to hang over'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
imminent danger:
A situation that poses an immediate threat.
imminent arrival:
The expected arrival is near or about to happen.
imminent disaster:
A catastrophe that is likely to occur soon.
Related Words
impending:
About to happen, especially in a threatening way.
looming:
Appearing imminent or impending.
Slang Meanings of imminent
Meaning: On the brink of something happening.
● Example Sentence: With finals coming up, stress is at an imminent level.
Meaning: Something that is a sure thing.
● Example Sentence: His failure on the exam was imminent, given how little he studied.