Definition

The act of having an effect on something, often in a way that is unwanted or harmful.

Example

The impingement of the tree branches on the roof caused some damage.

Conversation

I heard you went to the doctor about your shoulder pain.

Yeah, they said it might be caused by impingement in my rotator cuff.

That sounds painful! What does that even mean?

It's when there's pressure on the shoulder tendons, making it hard to move.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Impingement is formed from "im-" (meaning into) and "pangere" (meaning to strike or push). The word describes the act of something striking or pushing into another, often used in a medical context to refer to pressure on a nerve or tissue.

Memory Tip

Think of something 'striking into' ('im-') another object ('pangere') — that's why impingement refers to pressure or contact.

Visually Confused Words