Impanel

Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/ɪmˈpæn.əl/

Definitions

1. Verb: To select or choose people for a particular role, such as for a jury, committee, or panel.
2. Verb: To constitute a group of people for a specific purpose or task, especially in legal or official contexts.

Usage Examples

• The judge will impanel a jury of twelve individuals for the trial.
• The committee impaneled several experts to review the new policy proposal.
• It is customary to impanel a group of advisors to assess the business strategy.

Etymology

From the Middle English impanelleren, meaning "to place on a panel," from Old French empaneler, from panel (a flat board or a list, especially for a jury). The word has been used in English since the 15th century.

Synonyms

• Enlist
• Select
• Appoint
• Convene
• Designate

Antonyms

• Exclude
• Dismiss
• Reject
• Omit
• Disband

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• UK: /ɪmˈpæn.əl/
• US: /ɪmˈpæn.əl/
• India: /ɪmˈpæn.əl/

Historical Usage

Historically, the term "impanel" was used to describe the act of selecting individuals for various official or legal duties, such as forming a jury or a governing body. The practice of impaneling individuals dates back to the English common law period, where the courts would impanel a jury of peers to try a case. Over time, the use of impanel expanded to encompass the selection of experts, advisors, and committee members for various tasks, especially in legal, corporate, and government settings.

Cultural Nuances

In many legal systems, the process of impaneling a jury is a critical part of the justice system, representing the community's involvement in legal proceedings. In the modern era, impaneling has extended beyond the legal domain into areas such as research, corporate governance, and public committees. The idea of bringing together diverse perspectives remains central to the cultural importance of impaneling, as it ensures that decisions are made with input from a broad range of individuals.

More Information

The verb "impanel" continues to be a key term in legal and governmental contexts, where it is vital to ensure the appropriate selection of people for specific tasks. From jury selection to the creation of advisory boards, impaneling reflects a commitment to fairness, diversity, and inclusivity. The process allows for a range of expertise and experiences to contribute to decision-making processes, ensuring that decisions are more reflective of the wider community's views.