Impressionable

/ɪmˈprɛʃənəbəl/ adjective

Definition

Easily influenced or affected by experiences, opinions, or suggestions, especially someone young who hasn't developed strong independent opinions yet.

Etymology

From 'impression' (a mark or effect made on someone's mind) plus '-able' (capable of being). The word emerged in the 1700s as psychology developed language to describe how minds form beliefs.

Kelly Says

Developmental psychologists discovered that humans are most impressionable around ages 2-7 and again during adolescence—these 'critical periods' shape personality more than any other time! This is why teachers and parents have such huge influence during these windows.

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