What does impale mean?
Impale means to pierce something with a sharp point, such as a stake, spear, or skewer. Its literal use can describe a violent or gruesome act, as in a historical or fictional account of someone being impaled on a stake. The word also has a figurative sense meaning to trap or embarrass someone, often through a question or criticism that offers no easy escape. In that use, impale suggests that a person has been cornered or exposed. It is a strong verb whose violence and intensity make it especially effective in literature, journalism, and descriptions of pointed confrontation. Although the verb is used in both British and American English, its figurative sense is particularly common in journalism and public debate, where a question or report may be said to have “impaled” a spokesperson.
To pierce or penetrate with a sharp point, especially a stake or spear.
"The knight impaled his opponent with a spear."
This literal sense can be violent or graphic.
To trap, embarrass, or sharply criticize someone, especially through a pointed question or remark.
"The reporter's question impaled the minister for his evasive answer."
This figurative use is forceful and commonly used in journalism and political commentary.
The word comes from the same ancient root as the stake of a fence: what is impaled is pierced by a sharp, pointed object.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does impale come from?
The word comes from Middle French empaler, meaning “to put on a stake,” and ultimately from Latin impalare, a form of the Latin word palus, meaning “stake.” The English word entered use in the early 16th century, initially describing the practice of piercing a body with a stake. Related English words include pal, pale, paling, and palisade, all reflecting the same ancient root.
Related word forms
How impale is actually used
The literal sense is often associated with violence or execution and may be graphic. The figurative sense is forceful and commonly conveys that someone has been cornered or subjected to an uncompromising question.
Easily confused with impale
To implant something is to place it securely in a position, often surgically, whereas to impale it is to pierce it with a sharp point.
To impinge on something is to affect or encroach upon it, whereas to impale something is to pierce it physically.