immanent Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective of a mental act performed entirely within the mind
    subjective.
    • a cognition is an immanent act of mind
  2. adjective satellite of qualities that are spread throughout something
    • ambition is immanent in human nature
    • we think of God as immanent in nature

WordNet

Im"ma*nent adjective
Etymology
L. immanens, p. pr. of immanere to remain in or near; pref. im- in + manere to remain: cf. F. immanent.
Definitions
  1. Remaining within; inherent; indwelling; abiding; intrinsic; internal or subjective; hence, limited in activity, agency, or effect, to the subject or associated acts; -- opposed to emanant, transitory, transitive, or objective.
    A cognition is an immanent act of mind. Sir W. Hamilton.
    An immanent power in the life of the world. Hare.

Webster 1913