impingement

American  

[im-pinj-muhnt] / ɪmˈpɪndʒ mənt /

noun

1. the act or fact of encroaching or infringing.

   This is an impingement on the fundamental right of free speech.

2. the act or fact of striking or touching something, or the effect produced by this.

   The impingement on the diamond’s hard crystal surface is due to oxygen in the air.

3. Medicine/Medical. the act or fact of interfering with something, especially a nerve, through contact or pressure.

   Impingement on the nerves can be relieved by removing the portion of the bone compressing the neural structures.

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Etymology

Origin of impingement

impinge ( def. ) + -ment ( def. )

Example Sentences

There’s a belt squat machine, for people with shoulder impingement or spinal compression issues; a bilateral leg press which helps with imbalances; “specialty bars” which help avoid impact on the shoulders.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 1, 2026

He has not pitched in nearly three months after going on the IL with a shoulder impingement.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 5, 2025

If Roberts’ story was accurate, and Sasaki experienced a shoulder impingement similar to the one that slowed him down last year in Japan, wouldn’t that point to a chronic problem?

From Los Angeles Times • May 14, 2025

Marlins: RHP Edward Cabrera was placed on the 15-day injured list for the second time this season due to right shoulder impingement.

From Seattle Times • May 8, 2024

And its direct path, the point of impingement, will be at Scandor.

From The Certainty of a Future Life in Mars by Gratacap, L. P.