Although the verb impact is approximately 200 years older than the noun, some object to it, especially when it is used to mean "to directly affect," as in "changes that will impact us all."

IMPACT definition: 1. the force or action of one object hitting another: 2. a powerful effect that something…. Learn more.

IMPACT meaning: 1 : the act or force of one thing hitting another; 2 : a powerful or major influence or effect often + on

The noun impact can refer to a physical force (like a collision), an influence (a bad role model or a hero), or a strong effect (a foot of snow will have an impact on driving conditions).

impact n 1. the act of one body, object, etc, striking another; collision 2. the force with which one thing hits another or with which two objects collide

Impact refers to a significant or strong influence or effect that one thing or event has on another. It can refer to physical contact or collision, influence or effect in social, environmental, or …

The effect or impression of one person or thing on another. Still gauging the impact of automation on the lives of factory workers.

to have impact or make contact forcefully: The ball impacted against the bat with a loud noise. to have an impact or effect: Increased demand will impact on sales.

IMPACT definition: the striking of one thing against another; forceful contact; collision. See examples of impact used in a sentence.

Dec 23, 2025 · Although most verbification instances in English draw no prescriptive attention, some authorities object to the verb sense of impact meaning "to significantly or strongly …