A rapid learning process that takes place early in the life of a social animal and establishes a behavior pattern (such as recognition of and attraction to its own kind or a substitute).

The ducklings followed the first moving object they saw due to imprinting.

A genetic phenomenon by which certain genes are expressed in a parent-of-origin-specific manner.

Genomic imprinting can affect the development of certain traits in offspring.

The act or process of producing a mark, pattern, or impression on a surface by pressure or printing.

The imprinting of serial numbers on the metal plates must be precise.

imprintinggerund / present participle

Relating to, involving, or resulting from the process of imprinting.

Imprinting mechanisms in early development can have lifelong effects.

imprintverb

To mark or stamp a surface with a design or pattern.

The artist imprinted the clay with intricate patterns.

To fix an idea or image firmly in someone's mind.

The teacher's words imprinted a sense of responsibility in the students.

To make a strong impression on someone or something.

The tragic event imprinted itself on her memory forever.

To cause (a young animal) to come to recognize another animal, person, or thing as a parent or other object of habitual trust.

The researcher imprinted the ducklings on a cardboard model.