impend

[ im-pend ]

verb (used without object)

1. to be imminent; be about to happen.
2. to threaten or menace:

   He felt that danger impended.

3. Archaic. to hang or be suspended; overhang (usually followed by over ).

impend

/ ɪmˈpɛnd /

verb

1. (esp of something threatening) to be about to happen; be imminent
2. rare.
   foll by over to be suspended; hang

Derived Forms

• imˈpendence, noun

Other Words From

• super·im·pend verb (used without object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of impend¹

First recorded in 1580–90, impend is from the Latin word impendēre to hang over, threaten. See im- ¹, pend

Word History and Origins

Origin of impend¹

C16: from Latin impendēre to overhang, from pendēre to hang

Example Sentences

Fines and imprisonment impend over us, for exercising one of the holiest charities of our religion.

From Project Gutenberg

At the distance of a mile they appeared to tower and almost impend over us.

From Project Gutenberg

Concealing his agitation, he began the routine of such familiar labors as impend on the eve of battle.

From Project Gutenberg

One speaks upon occasion, giving him warning when grave troubles impend.

From Project Gutenberg

The Kalmuck priest wears a leather coat, over the laps of which impend hundreds of strips, with leather tassels on the breast.

From Project Gutenberg