Dictionary

1headlong

adverb head·long \-ˈlŋ\

: with the head leading

: without taking time to think about your actions

Full Definition of HEADLONG

1
:  headfirst 1
2
:  without deliberation :  recklessly <rushes headlong into danger>
3
:  without pause or delay
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Origin of HEADLONG

Middle English hedlong, alteration of hedling, from hed head
First Known Use: 14th century

2headlong

adjective head·long \-ˌlŋ\

Definition of HEADLONG

1
archaic :  steep, precipitous
2
:  lacking in calmness or restraint :  precipitate <a headlong torrent of emotion>
3
:  plunging headfirst

First Known Use of HEADLONG

circa 1550

Synonym Discussion of HEADLONG

precipitate, headlong, abrupt, impetuous, sudden mean showing undue haste or unexpectedness. precipitate stresses lack of due deliberation and implies prematureness of action <the army's precipitate withdrawal>. headlong stresses rashness and lack of forethought <a headlong flight from arrest>. abrupt stresses curtness and a lack of warning or ceremony <an abrupt refusal>. impetuous stresses extreme impatience or impulsiveness <an impetuous lover proposing marriage>. sudden stresses unexpectedness and sharpness or violence of action <flew into a sudden rage>.
HEADLONG Defined for Kids

1headlong

adverb head·long \ˈhed-ˈlŋ\

Definition of HEADLONG for Kids

1
:  headfirst <The boys dove headlong into a pile of leaves.>
2
:  without waiting to think things through <Don't rush headlong into marriage.>

2headlong

adjective \ˈhed-ˌlŋ\

Definition of HEADLONG for Kids

1
:  1rash, impulsive <“I don't rush into things in your headlong way, Anne.” — Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Avonlea>
2
:  plunging headfirst <He made a headlong run for the exit.>

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