1. a rapid learning process in young animals where they form an attachment to the first moving object they see, typically their parent
Usage: psychology; biology
2. the process of making a mark or impression on something
3. the process of fixing something firmly in memory or consciousness

Examples

• The goslings followed the researcher everywhere due to imprinting that occurred shortly after hatching.
• Imprinting helps ensure that young animals stay close to their mothers for protection.
• The imprinting of the company logo on the letterhead was done with special equipment.
• The traumatic event resulted in the imprinting of vivid memories that lasted for years.
• Scientists study imprinting to understand how animals form social bonds.
• The imprinting process in ducks occurs within the first few hours of life.
• The machine was used for imprinting serial numbers on metal parts.