What does imperviously mean?
Imperviously is an adverb meaning “in a way that cannot be penetrated, affected, or disturbed.” It can describe physical resistance, as in a surface that is imperviously sealed against water or dust, but it is more commonly used figuratively to describe a person's emotional state. Someone who remains imperviously calm, cheerful, or indifferent appears completely unmoved by circumstances or criticism. The word carries a tone of formality and literary polish, so it is more noticeable in formal writing or speech than in casual conversation. Its strength comes from the idea of an outer barrier remaining unbroken: pressure may be present, but it neither reaches nor changes what lies beneath. Imperviously therefore suggests not merely brief self-control, but a remarkably complete resistance to outside influence.
adverbIn a way that cannot be penetrated, affected, or disturbed. Figuratively, it means being completely unaffected by something.
- In a manner that cannot be penetrated or affected.
- In a completely unaffected or unperturbed manner.
"The shield was imperviously resistant to the blows, while the diplomat remained imperviously calm throughout the crisis."
"The material was imperviously sealed, preventing even the smallest particles from entering."
"She remained imperviously cheerful despite receiving discouraging news."
To be imperviously composed is to let the world knock without opening the door inside.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of imperviously
“Imperviously” was formed in English by adding the adverbial suffix -ly to “impervious.” “Impervious” comes through French from Latin impervius, formed from the negative prefix in- and pervius, meaning “passable” or “open to passage.” The compound ultimately expresses the idea of being unable to be passed through, and its figurative use for emotional or mental insensitivity developed later.
Related word forms
How imperviously is actually used
The word is formal and literary in contemporary use. It is often used figuratively, especially with 'calm', 'immune', 'indifferent', or 'unaffected', where it conveys complete emotional or mental detachment.
Easily confused with imperviously
Impervious is an adjective describing something that cannot be penetrated or affected, whereas imperviously is the adverb describing the manner of being that way.