Import Meaning
/ˈɪm.pɔːt/Definition, CEFR level B1, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
Listen pronunciation
Definition
nounSomething brought in from an exterior source, especially for sale or trade.
nounThe practice of importing.
Sentence Examples
Proponents of increased import duties are at odds with each other.
We import raw materials and export the finished products.
The country has to import most of its raw materials.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
CEFR Practice Quiz
Many countries ____ fresh fruits from tropical regions because they cannot grow them locally.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
Many countries need to ____ a significant amount of their food supply from neighboring nations.
Word Origin & History
From Middle English importen, from Old French emporter, importer, from Latin importō (“bring in from abroad, import”, verb), from in (“in, at, on; into”) + portō (“to carry, bear; convey”).
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"Trump’s July 8 announcement of a 50% tariff on copper imports beginning August 1 sent prices surging 13% in one day, up to a record high of $5.69 per pound."
— 2025 July 17, John Towfighi, “Copper prices have surged to record highs — and they could jump higher. Here’s why”, in CNN Business:
"See how much it importeth to learn to take Time by the Fore-Top."
— 1661, Thomas Salusbury, (Please provide the book title or journal name):
"This Letter is mistooke: it importeth none here: It is writ to laquenetta."
— 1593, Shakespeare, Love's Labour's Lost:
"If I endure it, what imports it you?"
— 1681, John Dryden, The Spanish Fryar: Or, the Double Discovery. […], London: […] Richard Tonson and Jacob Tonson, […], →OCLC, (please specify the page number):
"It imports us to get all the aid and assistance we can."
— 1762, David Hume, The History of England:
Explore More B1 Vocabulary Words
CEFR Practice Quiz
Many countries ____ fresh fruits from tropical regions because they cannot grow them locally.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
Many countries need to ____ a significant amount of their food supply from neighboring nations.