Marked or stamped with a design or pattern, or in psychology, having undergone imprinting - a rapid learning process where young animals form strong attachments. Also refers to being deeply influenced or marked by an experience.
From Latin 'imprimere' (to press into), combining 'in-' (into) and 'premere' (to press). The psychological sense developed from ethology research in the 20th century, notably Konrad Lorenz's work with goslings.
Baby ducks and geese will imprint on the first moving object they see after hatching - which is why you sometimes see goslings following a human around like they're their parent! This biological process gave us a powerful metaphor for how early experiences can permanently shape us.
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