imperil

[im-per-uhl]

verb (used with object)

imperiled, imperiling , imperilled, imperilling .

1. to put in peril or danger; endanger.

   Synonyms: chance, hazard, jeopardize, risk

imperil

/ ɪmˈpɛrɪl /

verb

1. (tr) to place in danger or jeopardy; endanger

Other Word Forms

• imperilment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of imperil¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; im- ¹ + peril

Example Sentences

Brendan Cummings, conservation director for the Center for Biological Diversity, said that removing deer would offer hope for an island that ranks “among the state’s most fragile and imperiled biodiversity hotspots.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

It’s designed to push us into less-tapped areas of empathy for a forgotten class of citizens who are willing to imperil their lives for something more than mere survival.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

“How to manage an imperiled species within a community can be difficult,” he said, “but ultimately, I’ve never met a community that regrets protecting trees and open spaces.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

"This is a landmark victory for the Everglades and countless Americans who believe this imperilled wilderness should be protected, not exploited," said Eve Samples, executive director of Friends of the Everglades.

Read more on BBC

The latest jobs report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that the administration’s mass deportation campaign, and revoking of visas for skilled workers and professionals, are also imperiling economic growth.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• compromise 
• endanger 
• jeopardize 
• menace