Definition of impetus

competent Definition: (adjective) having the skill and knowledge needed for a particular task; capable Petersons.com

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< impetuous

impiety >

im·pe·tus    (mp-ts) KEY  

NOUN:
pl. im·pe·tus·es

1. An impelling force; an impulse.
2. The force or energy associated with a moving body.
3. 1. Something that incites; a stimulus.
   2. Increased activity in response to a stimulus: The approaching deadline gave impetus to the investigation.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English impetous, from Latin impetus, from impetere, to attack : in-, against ; see in- ² + petere, to go towards, seek; see pet- in Indo-European roots

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