ə̇mˈpəlshən noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French or Latin; Middle French, from Latin impulsion-, impulsio, from impulsus (past participle of impellere to impel) + -ion-, -io -ion — more at impel
1.
a. : the act of impelling or the state of being impelled : the sudden or momentary action of a body in motion impinging on another body
b. : the impelling force or impulse
c. : an onward tendency derived from an impulsion : impetus ; specifically : a marked or vigorous forward drive of a horse in a gait
2.
a. : an influence acting usually unexpectedly or temporarily on the mind or will and urging to action ; also : an action provoked by such an influence
b. : drive to motor activity or creative effort
c. : impulse 2c
3. : compulsion 2