noun / verb

import

The importance of something.

The decision has lasting import for the community.

Etymology

The Latin verb includes bringing in and signifying. Import developed from what a matter carries in meaning to the importance or consequence that meaning gives it.

More examples

  • It was a matter of great import.
  • They underestimated the discovery's import.
  • The phrase describes events that import little to the wider story.

Forms

import · imports · imported · importing

Similar words

importance
The ordinary term for significance or consequence.
weight
Figuratively emphasizes influence or seriousness.