Impasse definition

ĭmpăs

The definition of an impasse is something from which there is no escape or solution.

An example of impasse is a blind alley.

An example of impasse is an argument where no agreement is reached.

noun

A situation that is so difficult that no progress can be made; a deadlock or a stalemate.

Reached an impasse in the negotiations.

noun

A road or passage having no exit; a cul-de-sac.

noun

A situation offering no escape, as a difficulty without solution, an argument where no agreement is possible, etc.

noun

noun

noun

A passage open only at one end; blind alley.

noun

Other Word Forms

Singular:

impasse

Plural:

impasses

French in- not (from Latin in- in–¹) passe a passing (from Old French) (from passer to pass pass)

From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition
[1851] Borrowing from French impasse, from in- + passer.

From Wiktionary