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adj Uncommon

impending

ihm-PEHN-dihng

Impending (adj) means about to happen soon, often something unwelcome. Example: “A sense of impending doom hung over the meeting.”

adj
1
About to happen soon, often something unwelcome.
"A sense of impending doom hung over the meeting."
"Workers braced for the impending layoffs."

How to Use Impending

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishComing soon — usually used for something worrying or serious.

Common pairings
impending doom impending disaster impending deadline

Word Forms

impendings plural

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A sense of _____ doom hung over the meeting.

Etymology

From impend plus -ing.

Antonyms

Related Words

Rhymes for impending

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “impending” mean?

The word “impending” means about to happen soon, often something unwelcome. In plain terms, coming soon — usually used for something worrying or serious.

How do you pronounce “impending”?

“Impending” is pronounced ihm-PEHN-dihng (/ɪmˈpɛndɪŋ/ in IPA).

How do you use “impending” in a sentence?

Here is “impending” used in a sentence: “A sense of impending doom hung over the meeting.”

What is the opposite of “impending”?

The opposite of “impending” — its antonyms — is happening.

What part of speech is “impending”?

“Impending” is an adjective.

Is “impending” a common word?

“Impending” is an uncommon word in modern English.

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