impulse Meaning & Definition
What Does Impulse Mean?
Impulse is used as a noun meaning A thrust; a push; a sudden force that impels. It can also mean A wish or urge, particularly a sudden one prompting action. As a verb, it means To impel; to incite.
Word Facts for Impulse
| Part of speech | noun, verb |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | //ˈɪmpʌls// |
| Syllables | 1 |
| Synonyms | impetus, urge and whim |
| Plural | impulses |
| Verb forms | impulses, impulsing, impulsed |
Impulse Definition (Noun)
- A thrust; a push; a sudden force that impels.
- A wish or urge, particularly a sudden one prompting action.
The impulse to learn drove me to study night and day.
- The integral of force over time.
The total impulse from the impact will depend on the kinetic energy of the projectile.
Impulse as a Verb
- To impel; to incite.
Synonyms of Impulse
Impulse synonyms and antonyms →Antonyms of Impulse
No antonyms or near antonyms are listed by the available sources for this entry.
Impulse in a Sentence
The impulse to learn drove me to study night and day.
When I saw the new book, I couldn't resist the impulse to browse through it.
The total impulse from the impact will depend on the kinetic energy of the projectile.
The total impulse from the impact will depend on the kinetic energy of the bullet.
Word Forms & Grammar
impulse (plural impulses)
impulse (third-person singular simple present impulses, present participle impulsing, simple past and past participle impulsed)
Words That Rhyme With Impulse
Origin of Impulse
Borrowed from Middle French impulser, from Latin impulsus.
How to Pronounce Impulse
The standard pronunciation of impulse is //ˈɪmpʌls//, spoken in 1 syllable.
Questions People Ask About Impulse
Is impulse a noun or a verb?
Impulse is mainly used as a noun, but it can also be used as a verb.
What is another word for impulse?
Words with a similar meaning to impulse include impetus, urge and whim. See the full list of impulse synonyms and antonyms.
What is the plural of impulse?
The plural of impulse is impulses.
What is the past tense of impulse?
The past tense of impulse is impulsed. The present participle is impulsing.