VocabDictionary

impound

/ษชmหˆpaสŠnd/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.verb

To seize and take legal custody of something, especially a vehicle or other property, because of a violation of the law.

Example Sentences:
  • โ€œThe police decided to impound the car after the driver was caught racing on the highway.โ€
  • โ€œThe authorities impounded the illegal goods found at the border crossing.โ€
2.verb

To shut up or confine animals in a pound.

Example Sentences:
  • โ€œThe local animal control officer was forced to impound the stray dogs roaming the neighborhood.โ€
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for โ€œimpoundโ€.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Middle English 'impounden', formed by the prefix 'im-' (in) and 'pound' (an enclosure for stray animals). The term originally referred to the legal act of placing stray livestock into a public enclosure (a pound) until the owner paid a fine.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'in-pound': the object is being put IN a POUND (enclosure) by the authorities.

Frequently Asked Questions About โ€œimpoundโ€

1. What is the meaning of โ€œimpoundโ€ in English?

In English, impound (verb) is defined as: โ€œTo seize and take legal custody of something, especially a vehicle or other property, because of a violation of the law.โ€.

2. How do you use โ€œimpoundโ€ in a sentence?

โ€œThe police decided to impound the car after the driver was caught racing on the highway.โ€

3. What are English synonyms of โ€œimpoundโ€?

Common synonyms include:confiscate,seize,sequester,appropriate,attach

4. What is the etymology and word origin of โ€œimpoundโ€?

Derived from the Middle English 'impounden', formed by the prefix 'im-' (in) and 'pound' (an enclosure for stray animals). The term originally referred to the legal act of placing stray livestock into a public enclosure (a pound) until the owner paid a fine.