An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

1. To lay on or set as something to be borne, endured, obeyed, fulfilled, paid, etc.
   

2. To put or set by or as if by authority (Dictionary.com).

Etymology (EN): M.E., from O.Fr. imposer “put, place; impute, charge, accuse,” from → in- “into, in” + poser “put, place,” → position.

Etymology (PE): Barnehâdan, literally “to place on, upon,” from bar-, → on-,

• nehâdan “to put, place,” → compose.