What does imperviousness mean?
Imperviousness refers to the quality of being resistant to penetration, damage, or influence. This can be a physical property, such as a material's resistance to water or chemicals, or a metaphorical one, such as a person's resistance to external influences. Imperviousness can also imply a sense of independence or self-sufficiency. In a city, imperviousness to flooding might be a concern, while in a company, imperviousness to criticism might be seen as a positive trait. The word is often used to describe things that are resistant to external forces, and can be used in a variety of contexts to convey a sense of resilience or invulnerability. Imperviousness is a useful word for describing things that are strong and resistant, and can be used in both formal and informal writing.
nounThe quality of being impervious, or resistant to penetration, damage, or influence.
- The quality of being impervious, or resistant to penetration, damage, or influence.
"The city's imperviousness to flooding was a major concern for residents."
"The city's imperviousness to flooding was a major concern for residents."
"The company's imperviousness to criticism was impressive."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of imperviousness
The word imperviousness comes from the adjective impervious, which means resistant to penetration or damage. This adjective is derived from the Latin words 'im-' meaning not and 'permeabilis' meaning able to be pierced. The word has been used in English since the 17th century to describe things that are resistant to external influences or damage.
How imperviousness is actually used
Imperviousness is often used to describe a person, place, or thing that is resistant to external influences or damage. It can also imply a sense of independence or self-sufficiency.