English Reference
verb · adjective

impacted

v. · adj.
US /ˈɪmˌpæktɪd/ UK /ˈɪmpæktɪd/ im·pact·ed

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to have a strong effect on someone or something, often in a negative way.

    v.to have a significant effect or influence on a situation or entity; frequently used in the passive voice in business and economic contexts.

    Simple

    The local tourism industry was heavily impacted by the long period of bad weather.

    In context

    Supply chains were severely impacted by the sudden increase in fuel prices, leading to significant delays across the manufacturing sector.

    Usage

    Often used in the passive voice with 'by'.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical Medicine

    adj.describes a tooth that cannot grow through the gum because it is blocked by another tooth.

    adj.referring to a tooth that is prevented from erupting normally because it is wedged against another tooth or bone.

    Simple

    The dentist said my impacted wisdom tooth needs to be removed next week.

    In context

    Radiographs revealed that the third molar was horizontally impacted, necessitating a surgical extraction to prevent further crowding of the dental arch.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency FormalTechnical

    adj.pressed or packed firmly together.

    adj.wedged or packed closely and firmly together so as to be immovable.

    Simple

    The pipe was blocked by a mass of impacted debris.

    In context

    The geologist noted that the lower strata consisted of heavily impacted sediment that had hardened over several millennia.

Have the heatwaves impacted on an event you have planned?

BBC News· 14 Aug 2026

The Department of Environment said 5km of the Kilkeel River in the Mournes area was impacted.

BBC News· 12 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated