impound

[im-pound, 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

Other Word Forms

• impounder noun
• impoundage noun
• impoundable adjective
• unimpounded adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of impound¹

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

Example Sentences

But commit a second similar offence within the year and police have the ability to impound, or take away, vehicles.

From BBC

They impounded Robins’ G Wagon, which according to CBS was found in a body shop with some damaged parts already swapped out.

From Los Angeles Times

Hundreds of young Black men would typically be arrested, their cars impounded and often ransacked by the time they were released from jail — without charges — on Monday morning.

From Los Angeles Times

As they were preparing to impound the vehicle, Diaz approached and claimed to be the owner, according to officials.

From Los Angeles Times

A British fishing vessel has been impounded by the French authorities, accused of illegally fishing in their waters.

From BBC

Related Words

• imprison 
• seize