Definition of the word impressionable

The word "impressionable" originated in the 17th century, derived from the French word "impressionnable," meaning "capable of being impressed or stamped." In the context of human psychology, the term was first used by French philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau in the late 18th century. Rousseau introduced the term in his groundbreaking work "Emile, or On Education," where he argued that young children are born as "blank slates" (tabula rasa in Latin) and are thus vulnerable to external influences. He believed that a child's impressionable mind, which is susceptible to learning and absorbent of experiences, needed nurturing guidance during the developmental stages. The concept of impressionability has since been explored by various scholars in psychology, philosophy, and pedagogy. In psychology, it refers to a person's susceptibility to external stimuli and experiences, which can shape their thoughts, attitudes, and beliefs. In pedagogy, its significance lies in how educators can effectively leverage a child's impressionability during crucial periods of development. In recent times, the popular usage of the term "impressionable" has evolved, reflecting a broader societal understanding of the human psyche. It now goes beyond just implying gullibility, but involves a complex interplay of cognitive and emotional processes that contributes to one's overall perception and understanding of the world.