imminence

[ im-uh-nuhns ]
See synonyms for imminence on Thesaurus.com
noun
  1. Also im·mi·nen·cy. the state or condition of being imminent or impending: the imminence of war.

  2. something that is imminent, especially an impending evil or danger.

Origin of imminence

1
From the Late Latin word imminentia, dating back to 1600–10. See imminent, -ence

Words Nearby imminence

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024

How to use imminence in a sentence

  • Koh developed a theory of "elongated imminence," which he likened to "battered spouse syndrome."

    David's Bookclub: Kill or Capture | David Frum | September 11, 2012 | THE DAILY BEAST
  • The settlement no doubt was influenced by the imminence of a large expansion of policy—the ill-starred Irish expedition.

    King Robert the Bruce | A. F. Murison
  • He seemed suddenly recalled to himself—to the imminence of some crisis dominating his freedom of decision.

    The Woman Gives | Owen Johnson
  • The services of John Clarke must be estimated by the imminence of the danger, and his skill by the difficulty of the negotiation.

    A short history of Rhode Island | George Washington Greene
  • Weary as she was, the imminence of disaster at first fascinated—then enthralled her.

    The Secret Witness | George Gibbs
  • Their organization is usually quite informal and is determined by the nature and imminence of its conflicts with other groups.