impound

[ verb im-pound; noun im-pound ]

verb (used with object)

1. to shut up in a pound or other enclosure, as a stray animal.
2. to confine within an enclosure or within limits:

   water impounded in a reservoir.

3. to seize and retain in custody of the law, as a document for evidence.

noun

1. money, property, etc., that has been impounded:

   a sale of impounds by the police department.

impound

/ ɪmˈpaʊnd /

verb

1. to confine (stray animals, illegally parked cars, etc) in a pound
2. 1. to seize (chattels, etc) by legal right
   2. to take possession of (a document, evidence, etc) and hold in legal custody
3. to collect (water) in a reservoir or dam, as for irrigation
4. to seize or appropriate

Derived Forms

• imˈpounder, noun
• imˈpoundage, noun
• imˈpoundable, adjective

Other Words From

• im·pounda·ble adjective
• im·pounder noun
• unim·pounded adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of impound¹

First recorded in 1545–55; im- ³ + pound ³

Example Sentences

He plans to revive the practice of “impounding” funds — blocking agencies from spending money that Congress has appropriated for programs he doesn’t like.

From Los Angeles Times

Richard M. Nixon, another president often accused of abusing his power, often got around that issue by withholding — or “impounding” — money appropriated by Congress.

From New York Times

Opting to leave, Richardson was released without any personal belongings — her wallet and phone were inside her impounded Honda Civic, where it appeared she had been living.

From Los Angeles Times

The driver of the Charger, Sutter said, was not at the scene and the car was impounded.

From Los Angeles Times

The vehicle was so charred, it was not driveable and had to be impounded, according to police.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• imprison
• seize