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 notesIn plain EnglishComing soon — usually used for something worrying or serious.
Common pairings
impending doom
impending disaster
impending deadline
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Word forms
- Plural
- impendings
Fill the gap
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A sense of _____ doom hung over the meeting.
Etymology
From impend plus -ing.
Synonyms
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impendent
imminent
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for impending
ending
sending
bending
lending
pending
mending
spending
unending
blending
trending
defending
ascending
See all rhymes for impending →
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.
