imperil

American  

[im-per-uhl] / ɪmˈpɛr əl /

verb (used with object)

imperiled, imperiling, imperilled, imperilling

1. to put in peril or danger; endanger.

   Synonyms:

   chance, hazard, jeopardize, risk

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imperil British  

/ ɪmˈpɛrɪl /

verb

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

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Other Word Forms

• imperilment noun

Etymology

Origin of imperil

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

Example Sentences

The fund, now imperiled, helps survivors recover from torture in the U.S. and around the world.

From Salon

That story and all the thematic clones emerging in its wake center contradictory thought as heroic and easily imperiled because it muddies a convenient, consolidated prescription of how the world should work.

From Salon

Some ranchers worry that wastewater might contaminate sources of groundwater and imperil their operations.

From The Wall Street Journal

The case is part of a wider international movement seeking to hold major companies responsible for climate damage that imperils millions, especially in developing countries.

From Barron's

When saving an imperiled Eden means sacrificing one species to protect dozens more, there are no easy answers.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• compromise
• endanger
• jeopardize
• menace