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impost¹ Definition

im·post (im′pōst′)

noun

  1. a tax; esp., a duty on imported goods
  2. Horse Racing the weight assigned to a horse in a handicap race

Etymology: OFr < ML impostus < L impositus, pp. of imponere: see impose

transitive verb

to classify (imported goods) in order to assess the proper taxes

impost² Definition

im·post (im′pōst′)

noun

the top part of a pillar, pier, or wall supporting an arch

Etymology: Fr imposte < It imposta < L impositus: see impost

impost Usage Examples

Converse of object

  • pay: The tenant pays all imposts: he may not change the form of the property, nor do anything to depreciate its value.
  • project: A round-headed window with projecting imposts in the west wall.

Modifies a noun

  • block: One story, originally symmetrical with four round-headed arched windows with keystone linked by impost blocks flanking larger similar central door.
  • band: Central double 6-panel door and fanlight with radial glazing bars, in plain stone surround with impost bands, round-arched head and keystone.