Meaning & Definition of word "Imminent"
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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.