impingement

American  

[im-pinj-muhnt] / ɪmˈpɪndʒ mənt /

noun

1. the act or fact of encroaching or infringing.

   This is an impingement on the fundamental right of free speech.

2. the act or fact of striking or touching something, or the effect produced by this.

   The impingement on the diamond’s hard crystal surface is due to oxygen in the air.

3. Medicine/Medical. the act or fact of interfering with something, especially a nerve, through contact or pressure.

   Impingement on the nerves can be relieved by removing the portion of the bone compressing the neural structures.

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Etymology

Origin of impingement

impinge ( def. ) + -ment ( def. )

Example Sentences

Sasaki went to the sideline in early May with a right shoulder impingement and wasn’t reactivated until the final week of the season — as a reliever.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 5, 2025

Sasaki went 1-1 with a 4.72 ERA in eight starts before going on the injured list with a shoulder impingement in mid-May.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 9, 2025

Marlins: RHP Edward Cabrera was placed on the 15-day injured list for the second time this season due to right shoulder impingement.

From Seattle Times • May 8, 2024

Cobb said he’s accepted that the hip impingement injury he sustained in June is likely to linger the remainder of the season.

From Washington Times • Sep. 12, 2023

I felt the sudden impingement of Hezekiah's slipper upon my own conscience, if I may so state the matter.

From The Siege of the Seven Suitors by Nicholson, Meredith