impression

An impression is a mark or imprint made by pressing an object against a surface, leaving a detectable trace. It is also used to describe the effect or influence that something has on a person or perception.

The term comes from Latin impressionem, from imprimi "to press into".

In physical contexts, impressions include dental impressions, where a pliable material captures the negative geometry of teeth to guide restorations; footprints and tool marks recorded in rocks or plaster; and prints produced by stamping or molding processes in art and manufacturing.

In psychology and everyday language, impression refers to the mental image formed of a person or situation. First impressions are rapid assessments that can influence judgments and behavior; research identifies systematic biases, such as the halo effect.

In the arts, an impression may denote a single print in printmaking, or the impression left by a sculpture or relief on a surface. In forensics, impression evidence consists of traces of a tool, tire tread, or footwear that indicate contact with an object.

Overall, impression as a term encompasses both tangible traces created by contact and intangible effects on perception and judgment.