fast Definition
- 1moving or able to move quickly
- 2done in a short amount of time
- 3not eating any food or very little food for a period of time, usually for religious or health reasons
Using fast: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "fast" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The cheetah is the fastest land animal.
Example
She finished the race in record time, running very fast.
Example
He's a fast learner and picks up new skills quickly.
Example
She's fasting for Ramadan.
Example
I need to take a fast shower before we leave.
fast Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for fast
- quick
- rapid
- speedy
- swift
- hasty
Antonyms for fast
- slow
- sluggish
- leisurely
Idioms Using fast
hold fast
to remain firmly committed to something
Example
Despite the challenges, she held fast to her beliefs and values.
play fast and loose
to behave recklessly or irresponsibly
Example
He's been playing fast and loose with his finances, spending more than he earns.
pull a fast one
to deceive or trick someone
Example
I thought I was getting a good deal, but it turns out he pulled a fast one on me.
Phrases with fast
fast asleep
in a deep sleep
Example
The baby was fast asleep in her crib.
fast and furious
very quick and intense
Example
The storm hit fast and furious, causing widespread damage.
fast food
food that is prepared and served quickly, often in a restaurant chain
Example
We grabbed some fast food on the way home from the movie theater.
Origins of fast
from Old English 'fæst', meaning 'firmly fixed'
Summary: fast in Brief
The term 'fast' [fæst] can be used as an adjective or adverb to describe quickness in movement or time, as in 'The cheetah is the fastest land animal.' It can also refer to abstaining from food for religious or health reasons, as in 'She's fasting for Ramadan.' Phrases like 'fast asleep' and idioms like 'hold fast' extend the meaning to deep sleep and firm commitment, respectively. 'Fast' can also be used to describe food that is prepared and served quickly, as in 'We grabbed some fast food on the way home.'
