Impulse etymology

English

English word impulse comes from Latin impello, and later Latin impulsus (Incitement. Shock, impact, impulse.)

Detailed word origin of impulse

Dictionary entry Language Definition
impello Latin (lat) (figuratively) I impel, incite, urge, instigate, stimulate, persuade.. (figuratively) I overthrow, subdue, rout, destroy, vanquish.. I drive or push forward, set in motion, urge on, impel.. I push, drive or strike against something; assail.
impulsus Latin (lat) Incitement. Shock, impact, impulse.
impulser Middle French (frm)
impulse English (en) (physics) The integral of force over time.. A thrust; a push; a sudden force that impels.. A wish or urge, particularly a sudden one prompting action. (obsolete) To impel; to incite.