Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Impresa \Im*pre"sa\, n. [It. See {Emprise}, and cf. {Impress},
   n., 4.] (Her.)
   A device on a shield or seal, or used as a bookplate or the
   like. [Written also {imprese} and {impress}.]

         My impresa to your lordship; a swain Flying to a laurel
         for shelter.                             --J. Webster.