imp
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪmp/
KK: /ɪmp/
noun
Definition
A small, mischievous creature or child, often associated with playful troublemaking.
Example
The imp played tricks on the unsuspecting villagers.
Conversation
I saw a little kid acting like a real imp at the park today.
Oh really? What was he doing?
He was just running around and playing tricks on everyone!
Sounds like he was having a blast being a little imp!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
rascal
scamp
devil
Antonyms
angel
saint
hero
transitive verb
Definition
To add wings to something, especially in the context of training birds of prey by attaching new feathers to their wings.
Example
The falconer decided to imp the bird's wings to improve its flying ability.
Tense Forms
Past: impped
Past Participle: impped
Conversation
Did you hear about the falconry workshop this weekend?
Yeah, I heard they teach you how to imp the birds' wings.
Exactly! I think it would be fascinating to learn how they do that.
Root Explanation
Imp → The word 'imp' originates from Old English 'impa', meaning a young shoot or a small creature. It has evolved to refer to a mischievous or playful spirit, often depicted as a small demon or sprite.
Memory Tip
Think of a small 'creature' ('impa') that is 'mischievous' — that's why we call it an imp.
Visually Confused Words
simp
pimp
mimp
limp
jimp
himp
gimp