Definition of impinge

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im·pinge    (m-pnj) KEY 

VERB:
im·pinged, im·ping·ing, im·ping·es
VERB:
intr.

1. To collide or strike: Sound waves impinge on the eardrum.
2. To encroach; trespass: Do not impinge on my privacy.

VERB:
tr.

To encroach upon: "One of a democratic government's continuing challenges is finding a way to protect . . . secrets without impinging the liberties that democracy exists to protect" (Christian Science Monitor).

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ETYMOLOGY:
Latin impingere : in-, against ; see in-² + pangere, to fasten; see pag- in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
im·pingement(Noun), im·pinger(Noun)