impound
im-POWND
/ɪmˈpaʊnd/
To seize and take legal custody of something, especially a vehicle, due to a violation of the law.
Impound refers to the legal act of taking custody of the vehicle, which is usually done by towing it to a secured lot.
The story behind the word. The word impound comes from the prefix 'im-' (in) and the Old English word 'pund', which meant an enclosure for stray beasts or cattle. If a cow wandered onto someone else's land, it was put in the 'pound' until the owner paid for the damage.
Word relationships
- confiscate: Confiscate implies permanent seizure, whereas impound usually implies temporary custody until fees are paid.
- seize: Seize is a broad term for taking property, while impound specifically refers to placing it in a secure legal holding area.
- release: Release means to return the vehicle to its owner, which is the opposite of impounding it.
Commonly confused with
- tow: Towing is the physical act of dragging the car; impounding is the legal act of holding it in custody.
Word family
- impoundment (noun): The act of seizing and taking legal custody of a vehicle or property.
Collocations
- impound lot
- order to impound
- impound a vehicle
- seize and impound
Example sentences
- "The city has the authority to impound any vehicle parked in a designated fire lane." A warning regarding parking violations in a private lot.
Memory hook
If you park in the wrong 'pound' (lot), the city will 'impound' your car. In the pound goes the impounded car.
When not to use
Do not use 'impound' when you are simply parking a car or having it towed due to a mechanical breakdown.
Fun facts
- The term 'dog pound' shares the exact same origin, referring to the enclosure where stray animals are kept.
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