Definition of imperilnext
as in to endanger
to place in danger a single mistake could imperil the lives of everyone involved in the military operation

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of imperil Further imperiling ties are reports that Beijing is backing Tehran with a spy satellite and weapons systems. Tom Chivers, semafor.com, 16 Apr. 2026 This latest embarrassment may swell its numbers, and another defeat against Manchester opposition would begin to imperil a top-half finish, never mind Champions League qualification. Liam Twomey, New York Times, 13 Apr. 2026 America’s dealings with other nations across the globe have been imperiled by the threat of tariffs, and keeping this commitment to cooperation on the table is a must in the current trade environment. Kate Nishimura, Footwear News, 8 Apr. 2026 The world is a safer place when Iran is no longer able to threaten the Middle East, and beyond, with missiles nor imperil the world with its nascent nuclear bombs. The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 3 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for imperil
Recent Examples of Synonyms for imperil
Verb
  • The police department said body camera footage has already helped lead to charges against a driver accused of endangering a crossing guard and children.
    Madeleine Wright, CBS News, 30 Apr. 2026
  • Israel had said ban was necessary Initially, Israel said the ban was necessary because foreign journalists allowed into Gaza could give away the positions of Israeli soldiers and endanger them.
    Deepti Hajela, Los Angeles Times, 30 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Alex Bonetig’s goal more than five minutes into extra time made the difference for Portland (4-1-5), which threatened repeatedly late to break a 1-1 stalemate that lasted nearly the entire second half.
    Ryan Finley, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Apr. 2026
  • During the trial, the victim testified that Newton pointed a gun at the victim’s head and threatened her with it instead of attempting to pistol-whip her.
    City News Service, Oc Register, 25 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Imperil.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/imperil. Accessed 2 May. 2026.

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