An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

Of great significance or effect.

Etymology (EN): From M.Fr. important, from M.L. importantem, from importare “be significant in,” from importare “bring in,” → in- “into, in” + portare “to carry.”

Etymology (PE): Garin, on the model of Kurd. giring “important,” related to girân, gerân “heavy, important;” Mid.Pers. garân, Proto-Ir. stem *garu-; cf. Av. gouru-; Skt. guru- “heavy, important, venerable;” L. gravis “weighty, serious, heavy,” → gravity.