First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1haste
noun \ˈhāst\
: speed of motion or action : quickness or eagerness that can result in mistakes
Full Definition of HASTE
1
: rapidity of motion : swiftness
2
: rash or headlong action : precipitateness <the beauty of speed uncontaminated by haste — Harper's>
3
: undue eagerness to act
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Origin of HASTE
Middle English, from Anglo-French, of Germanic origin; akin to Old English hǣst violence
Related to HASTE
Synonym Discussion of HASTE
haste, hurry, speed, expedition, dispatch mean quickness in movement or action. haste applies to personal action and implies urgency and precipitancy and often rashness <marry in haste>. hurry often has a strong suggestion of agitated bustle or confusion <in the hurry of departure she forgot her toothbrush>. speed suggests swift efficiency in movement or action <exercises to increase your reading speed>. expedition and dispatch both imply speed and efficiency in handling affairs but expedition stresses ease or efficiency of performance and dispatch stresses promptness in concluding matters <the case came to trial with expedition> <paid bills with dispatch>.
2haste
verb
hast·edhast·ing
Definition of HASTE
transitive verb
archaic : to urge on : hasten
intransitive verb
: to move or act swiftly
First Known Use of HASTE
14th century
HASTE[1] Defined for Kids
haste
noun \ˈhāst\
Definition of HASTE for Kids
1
: quickness of motion or action : speed <He left in haste.>
2
: hasty action <Haste makes waste.>
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