FAST Meaning and
Definition
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Fast is an adjective that is primarily used to describe something that moves or occurs at a high rate of speed or happens quickly in general. It denotes the quality of being swift, rapid, or prompt. In terms of physical movement, it suggests a high velocity or rapid motion, often emphasizing the ability to cover distance in a short amount of time. For example, a cheetah is known for its remarkable speed, allowing it to move fast and catch its prey swiftly.
Furthermore, fast can be used to characterize a person or an individual's actions. In this context, it signifies someone who is quick in their thinking or decision-making, displaying mental agility and dexterity. For instance, a fast thinker can promptly analyze and respond to situations, providing efficient solutions.
Fast can also describe the pace or duration of an event or process. It conveys that something is accomplished swiftly, without significant delays or interruptions. For example, completing a task in a fast manner implies that it was executed promptly and efficiently.
Beyond its association with speed, fast can also describe the state of abstaining from food or refraining from eating for a period of time. In this context, fasting usually occurs for religious or health purposes, where individuals voluntarily go without food or drink for a specific duration.
To summarize, whether describing physical movement, mental agility, the pace of an event, or abstaining from eating, fast embodies the idea of speed, rapidity, or promptness.
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• Close; immovable; firmly fixed; without leaving an interval, as, to follow fast; rapid in motion; extravagant; dissipated; wild.
• With quick steps; rapidly.
• To abstain from food beyond the usual time.
• The abstaining from food for a certain time, or from particular kinds of food, as flesh; a religious mortification or humiliation by abstaining from food; the time of abstaining from food.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for FAST *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for FAST
Etymology of FAST
The word "fast" has two main etymological origins with different meanings.
1. "Fast" meaning quick or rapid:
This sense of "fast" traces back to the Old English word "fæst", which meant firm or fixed. It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "fastuz". Over time, "fæst" evolved to also mean quick, swift, or nimble in Middle English. This development likely arose from the association of being firm or fixed with being steadfast and efficient. The sense of being quick or rapid is still present in the modern usage of "fast" as an adjective or adverb.
2. "Fast" meaning not eating or abstaining:
The second meaning of "fast", as in abstaining from food or drink, has a different etymological origin.
Idioms with the word FAST
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stand fast/firm
The idiom "stand fast/firm" means to remain unyielding, steadfast, or resolute in one's beliefs, principles, or position in the face of opposition, challenges, or pressure. It implies staying firm and not being easily swayed or discouraged.
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hold/stand fast
The idiom "hold/stand fast" means to remain firm and steadfast in one's beliefs, principles, or position, especially in the face of adversity or opposition. It implies maintaining unwavering resolve and not giving in to pressure or temptation.
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on the fast track
The idiom "on the fast track" refers to someone or something that is progressing rapidly or quickly towards success or advancement. It implies being on a path that allows for rapid growth, promotion, or achievement.
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fast one
The idiom "fast one" refers to a deceptive or dishonest act or trick performed with speed or cunning in order to deceive or take advantage of someone. It suggests that someone has been fooled or swindled by a clever maneuver.
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fast friends
The idiom "fast friends" refers to individuals who quickly become close and loyal friends. It implies that the bond between them is formed rapidly and is deeply rooted.
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fast lane
The idiom "fast lane" refers to a lifestyle or situation characterized by a rapid pace, intense activity, or high levels of achievement and success. It often implies a life filled with busy schedules, ambitious goals, and a constant pursuit of progress or advancement. It connotes a fast-paced and competitive environment, where people strive to excel and thrive.
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fast talk
The idiom "fast talk" refers to the act of speaking rapidly and persuasively, typically with the intention to deceive or manipulate others. It often implies the use of charm, smoothness, and cunning to convince someone or sell them something under false pretenses.
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fast track
The definition of the idiom "fast track" refers to a situation or process that enables someone to achieve something quickly or efficiently, often involving accelerated progress or advancement. It implies a rapid or accelerated pathway towards achieving a goal or desired outcome.
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hold fast
To "hold fast" means to remain firm and resolute in a particular belief or course of action, often in the face of adversity or temptation. It can also imply staying steadfastly loyal or true to someone or something.
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lightning fast
The idiom "lightning fast" refers to something that happens or moves extremely quickly, often beyond normal or expected speed. It emphasizes the rapidity or swiftness with which a task, activity, or movement is accomplished.
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not so fast
The idiom "not so fast" is an expression used to caution someone to slow down, take a moment to consider something, or not proceed with a particular action hastily or impulsively. It suggests the need for reflection, careful thought, or the reconsideration of a decision or plan before proceeding further.
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stand fast
The idiom "stand fast" means to remain firm and unwavering in one's position, beliefs, or actions, especially in the face of opposition or adversity. It implies staying steadfast and resolute without backing down or compromising.
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the fast track
The idiom "the fast track" refers to a situation or path that allows individuals to achieve success or progress quickly, often bypassing typical procedures or taking shortcuts. It implies a rapid advancement or acceleration towards a particular goal or destination.
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in the fast lane
The idiom "in the fast lane" means to live or work at a very high pace, often involving an active and thrilling lifestyle. It refers to being engaged in intense and rapid activities, typically associated with success, ambition, or excitement.
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a fast (or quick) buck
The idiom "a fast (or quick) buck" refers to the act of making money quickly and effortlessly, often through dishonest or unethical means, without considering the long-term consequences. It implies a focus on immediate financial gain instead of pursuing legitimate or sustainable ways of earning money.
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play fast and loose with sth/sb
The idiom "play fast and loose with something/someone" means to behave in a careless or unscrupulous manner towards something or someone, usually disregarding rules, commitments, or moral considerations. It often involves manipulating or taking advantage of a situation or person for personal gain or convenience.
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get nowhere fast
The idiom "get nowhere fast" means to make little or no progress despite putting in effort or attempting to achieve something. It implies that one's efforts or actions are ineffective, leading to frustration or lack of results.
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play fast and loose with
The idiom "play fast and loose with" means to behave in a deceitful or unscrupulous manner, often by ignoring rules or principles for personal gain or convenience. It involves a disregard for moral or ethical standards and a willingness to manipulate or take advantage of situations for one's own benefit.
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fast and furious
The idiom "fast and furious" typically refers to something that is happening or being done in a very quick, intense, and aggressive manner. It suggests speed, energy, and excitement in the way an activity or situation is being conducted.
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go nowhere (fast)
The idiom "go nowhere (fast)" is used to describe a situation or an activity that lacks progress, advancement, or success. It implies that despite considerable effort or time invested, there is little or no meaningful outcome achieved. It suggests futility, unproductiveness, or a lack of development.
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make a fast buck
The idiom "make a fast buck" means to quickly earn or obtain money, often through dishonest or questionable means. It implies a desire to make money quickly and easily, even if it involves taking advantage of others or engaging in unethical practices.
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pull a fast one
The idiom "pull a fast one" means to deceive, trick, or mislead someone cunningly or unexpectedly. It involves engaging in a deceptive or dishonest act to gain an advantage or fool someone.
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play fast and loose with (someone or something)
The idiom "play fast and loose with (someone or something)" means to act in a careless, unreliable, or deceitful manner towards someone or something. It implies behaving irresponsibly, disregarding rules or commitments, and taking advantage of a situation or person. It suggests a lack of respect, accountability, or concern for the consequences of one's actions.
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play fast and loose with sth
The idiom "play fast and loose with something" means to behave in a careless, irresponsible, or unscrupulous manner towards something or someone. It refers to acting deceitfully or without regard for rules or principles in order to achieve personal gain or advantage.
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be fast on the draw
The idiom "be fast on the draw" refers to someone who is quick to react or respond, especially in a competitive situation. It originated from the Old West, where being fast on the draw referred to quick and accurate shooting skills during gun duels. In a broader sense, the idiom implies being quick-witted, decisive, and able to act swiftly when faced with a challenge or opportunity.
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as fast as your legs would carry you
The idiom "as fast as your legs would carry you" means to run or move as quickly as possible using only your legs, often to escape or avoid a dangerous or threatening situation. It implies the utmost speed and urgency in getting away from a particular place or circumstance.
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be no hard and fast rules
The idiom "be no hard and fast rules" means that there are no strict or absolute guidelines or regulations in a particular situation. It suggests that flexibility, adaptation, and discretion are required, and that decisions or actions should be made on a case-by-case basis rather than following rigid rules or principles.
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be fading away/fast
The idiom "be fading away/fast" refers to something or someone gradually losing relevance, importance, or influence. It implies that something is losing its impact or popularity over time, or someone is losing their power or significance.
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as fast as (one's) legs can carry (one)
The idiom "as fast as (one's) legs can carry (one)" means to run or move as quickly as one's physical capabilities allow. It implies giving one's maximum effort to escape or reach a destination in the shortest possible time, often used when fleeing from a dangerous situation or pursuing a goal with great urgency.
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fast buck
The idiom "fast buck" refers to making money quickly and easily, often by engaging in dishonest or unethical practices. It implies a desire for immediate financial gain without considering long-term consequences or ethical considerations.
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get one’s tail somewhere fast!
The idiom "get one's tail somewhere fast!" is an informal expression used to urge someone to move quickly or hurry up to a particular place or destination. It typically implies a sense of urgency or importance in the situation, emphasizing the need for swift action or promptness.
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play fast and loose
The idiom "play fast and loose" refers to behaving in a deceitful or reckless manner, often by bending or breaking rules or conventions. It suggests acting irresponsibly, unethically, or without consideration for the consequences of one's actions.
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(as) fast as lightning
The idiom "(as) fast as lightning" refers to something or someone that moves or happens with exceptional speed or rapidity. It emphasizes the swiftness of an action or movement, comparing it to the high velocity of lightning, which is known for its incredible speed.
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make a fast/quick buck
The idiom "make a fast/quick buck" means to earn money quickly and easily, often without much effort or consideration for ethical or long-term consequences. It implies a willingness to engage in opportunistic or exploitative activities solely for immediate financial gain.
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fast-talk out of
The idiom "fast-talk out of" refers to persuading or convincing someone to avoid a particular situation or task by using slick or smooth-talking techniques. It means to talk someone out of doing something through clever or manipulative speech.
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fade fast
The idiom "fade fast" means to deteriorate or lose strength, intensity, or vitality quickly. It can refer to physical health, mental clarity, energy, enthusiasm, or any other state or quality that diminishes rapidly.
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no hard and fast rules
The idiom "no hard and fast rules" refers to a situation or circumstance in which there are no strict and fixed guidelines or regulations. It implies that there is flexibility or ambiguity in a particular matter, allowing for discretion or individual interpretation. It suggests that there are no absolute standards or norms to adhere to, giving room for adaptability or creativity.
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fast asleep
The idiom "fast asleep" means to be in a deep sleep, in a state of slumber that is sound and undisturbed.
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pull a fast one (on someone)
The idiom "pull a fast one (on someone)" means to deceive or trick someone cleverly in order to gain an advantage or achieve a desired outcome. It typically involves outsmarting or fooling someone in a cunning or sneaky manner.
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hold fast to something
The idiom "hold fast to something" means to firmly or tightly grasp or cling to something, often referring to beliefs, principles, or values, in order to stay strong or committed. It suggests holding onto or remaining steadfast in one's convictions, even in difficult or challenging situations.
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make fast work of (someone or something)
The idiom "make fast work of (someone or something)" means to complete a task or defeat someone quickly and efficiently, with little effort or difficulty. It implies that the person or thing being dealt with is swiftly and easily overcome or accomplished.
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play fast and loose (with sm or sth)
The idiom "play fast and loose (with someone or something)" means to behave in a careless, unpredictable, or irresponsible manner towards someone or something. It refers to showing a lack of respect, commitment, or consideration, often in a deceptive or manipulative way.
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fast footwork
The idiom "fast footwork" refers to quick and nimble movement, typically in dancing, sports, or any situation that requires agility and speed. It suggests the ability to swiftly maneuver and make rapid decisions, often in a skillful and precise manner.
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be as fast etc. as all get out
The idiom "be as fast as all get out" or "be as __ as all get out" is used to emphasize or exaggerate the extremity of a particular quality or action. It suggests that someone or something is exceptionally fast, efficient, skilled, or intense. It is often used in a positive manner to praise someone's abilities or achievements.
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be as fast/hot/thin etc. as all get out
The idiom "be as fast/hot/thin etc. as all get out" is used to describe someone or something that is extremely fast, attractive, thin, or possesses some other desirable quality to the highest degree possible. It emphasizes the extreme or exceptional nature of a particular characteristic.
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play fast and loose (with somebody/something)
The idiom "play fast and loose (with somebody/something)" means to act recklessly or dishonestly, usually by disregarding rules, commitments, or moral principles. It refers to manipulating, deceiving, or taking advantage of someone or something without regard for the consequences.
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as fast as your legs can carry you
The idiom "as fast as your legs can carry you" is used to describe running or moving at the maximum speed one can possibly achieve. It suggests that the person is exerting all their physical effort to move quickly or escape from a situation.
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fast talker
A "fast talker" is an idiom used to describe someone who is persuasive, articulate, and skilled in speaking quickly and convincingly. This person is often able to effectively persuade others through their confident and quick-witted communication abilities, often relying on the power of their words rather than the substance of their message.
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a fast talker
The idiom "a fast talker" refers to someone who speaks quickly and persuasively, often using clever or slick language to manipulate or convince others, especially in order to gain personal advantage. This person usually possesses exceptional verbal skills and can easily deceive or influence others due to their ability to talk rapidly and convincingly.
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a fast one
The idiom "pulling a fast one" or "trying to pull a fast one" means to deceive or trick someone, particularly by acting quickly or cunningly.
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a fast track
The idiom "a fast track" refers to a situation or route that enables rapid progress or advancement. It implies a pathway or process that allows individuals to reach their goals or objectives more quickly and efficiently compared to traditional methods.
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pull a fast one (on sb)
To "pull a fast one (on someone)" is an idiomatic expression that means to deceive, trick, or manipulate someone cunningly or dishonestly. It refers to secretly and cleverly taking advantage of someone's trust, often by creating a situation where one person or party gains an unfair advantage over another.
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sinking fast
The idiom "sinking fast" refers to a situation or person rapidly declining or deteriorating, often in terms of health, financial status, or overall well-being. It implies a swift and notable decline, highlighting the urgency and gravity of the situation.
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break one's fast
The idiom "break one's fast" refers to the act of having the first meal of the day after a period of fasting, usually in the morning. It commonly implies breaking the overnight fast that occurs during sleeping hours.
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thick and fast
The idiom "thick and fast" means that something is happening rapidly and in large numbers or quantities. It is often used to describe a situation or event that is happening quickly and with great intensity.
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a fast worker
The idiom "a fast worker" refers to someone who completes tasks or achieves goals quickly and efficiently. It describes a person who is highly productive and able to accomplish a high volume of work in a short period of time.
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pull a fast one (on somebody)
The idiom "pull a fast one (on somebody)" means to deceive or trick someone cleverly and quickly. It is typically used when someone is being cunning or sly in their actions, often trying to manipulate or take advantage of someone else's trust or naivety.
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Bad news travels fast
The idiom "Bad news travels fast" means that negative or upsetting information tends to spread quickly or be communicated rapidly among people. It suggests that people are more eager to share or discuss negative events and that such news tends to travel at a faster pace than positive or good news.
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life in the fast lane
The idiom "life in the fast lane" refers to a lifestyle characterized by intense, rapid-paced activities, often associated with success, high pressure, and constant excitement. It suggests a life filled with ambition, achievement, and a constant pursuit of thrill or success, often at the expense of relaxation or stability.
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hard and fast
The idiom "hard and fast" typically refers to a set of strict and rigid rules or standards that must be followed without any exceptions or flexibility. It implies that there is no room for negotiation or variation from the established guidelines.
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fast-talk into
The idiom "fast-talk into" refers to persuading or convincing someone to do something quickly or easily, usually through the use of clever or smooth-talking techniques. It involves swaying or manipulating someone's opinion or decision by speaking rapidly and convincingly.
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stick fast
The idiom "stick fast" means to adhere firmly or tightly to something, often referring to a physical object sticking or being stuck in place. It can also be used figuratively to describe a person refusing to change their opinion or beliefs, or to describe a situation that cannot be easily altered or resolved.
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come thick and fast
The idiom "come thick and fast" means that something is happening or coming in large numbers or at a high speed and with great frequency or intensity. It implies a rapid succession or overwhelming quantity of events, ideas, or objects.
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play fast and loose with someone/something
The phrase "play fast and loose with someone/something" means to act in a careless, dishonest, or irresponsible manner towards someone or something. It often implies a lack of regard for the consequences or a willingness to manipulate or deceive in order to achieve one's own interests.
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fast and loose
The idiom "fast and loose" typically means behaving in a reckless or unreliable manner, often disregarding rules or moral standards. It can also refer to someone who plays tricks or manipulates others for their own advantage.
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at a fast, good, steady, etc. clip
This idiom is used to describe something being done at a fast, good, steady, etc. pace or rate. It implies that the activity is progressing quickly and efficiently.
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make a fast, (or quick) buck
To make a fast (or quick) buck means to make money quickly and easily, usually through dishonest or unethical means.
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be fast/quick on the draw
To be fast/quick on the draw means to react or respond quickly in a situation, especially in a competitive or challenging scenario. It originates from the idea of drawing a weapon quickly in a confrontation.
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be quick/fast on the draw
"To be quick or swift in reacting to a situation or coming up with a response or solution."
Similar spelling words for FAST
- feast,
- mast,
- fagot,
- Fausto,
- faught,
- Fausett,
- faucett,
- last,
- faggot,
- past,
- fact,
- fist,
- faust,
- fawcett,
- facteau,
- faucet,
- facet,
- vast,
- fassett,
- east,
- fat,
- cast,
- FASTS.
Conjugate verb Fast
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have fasted
you
would have fasted
he/she/it
would have fasted
we
would have fasted
they
would have fasted
CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
I
would have been fasting
you
would have been fasting
he/she/it
would have been fasting
we
would have been fasting
they
would have been fasting
CONDITIONAL PRESENT
I
would fast
you
would fast
he/she/it
would fast
we
would fast
they
would fast
CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
I
would be fasting
you
would be fasting
he/she/it
would be fasting
we
would be fasting
they
would be fasting
FUTURE
I
will fast
you
will fast
he/she/it
will fast
we
will fast
they
will fast
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be fasting
you
will be fasting
he/she/it
will be fasting
we
will be fasting
they
will be fasting
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have fasted
you
will have fasted
he/she/it
will have fasted
we
will have fasted
they
will have fasted
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been fasting
you
will have been fasting
he/she/it
will have been fasting
we
will have been fasting
they
will have been fasting
IMPERATIVE
we
Let´s fast
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was fasting
you
were fasting
he/she/it
was fasting
we
were fasting
they
were fasting
PAST PARTICIPLE
fasted
PAST PERFECT
I
had fasted
you
had fasted
he/she/it
had fasted
we
had fasted
they
had fasted
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been fasting
you
had been fasting
he/she/it
had been fasting
we
had been fasting
they
had been fasting
PRESENT
I
fast
you
fast
he/she/it
fasts
we
fast
they
fast
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am fasting
you
are fasting
he/she/it
is fasting
we
are fasting
they
are fasting
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
fasting
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have fasted
you
have fasted
he/she/it
has fasted
we
have fasted
they
have fasted
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been fasting
you
have been fasting
he/she/it
has been fasting
we
have been fasting
they
have been fasting
PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
he/she/it
fast
SIMPLE PAST
I
fasted
you
fasted
he/she/it
fasted
we
fasted
they
fasted
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