impulse

noun

integral of a force, F, over the time interval, t, for which it acts; term in classical mechanics
term in psychology

Pronunciation: /ˈɪmpʌls/

Etymology: Borrowed from Middle French impulser, from Latin impulsus.

A thrust; a push; a sudden force that impels.
“c. 1715-1716, Samuel Clarke, letter to Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz All spontaneous animal motion is performed by mechanical impulse.”
A wish or urge, particularly a sudden one prompting action.
“The impulse to learn drove me to study night and day.”
“When I saw the new book, I couldn't resist the impulse to browse through it.”
The integral of force over time.
“The total impulse from the impact will depend on the kinetic energy of the projectile.”

Etymology: Borrowed from Middle French impulser, from Latin impulsus.

To impel; to incite.
“With that force so impulsed and prest they are carried under the deepe Ocean.”