The word "fastness" is spelled with the /fæstnəs/ phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced with the short "a" sound /æ/ followed by an "s" sound /s/. The second syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound /ə/ followed by an "n" sound /n/ and an "s" sound /s/. This word can be used to describe the state of being fast or secure, as in "the fastness of a castle's walls". It can also refer to the quality of being quick or rapid, as in "the fastness of a horse's gallop".
Fastness is a noun that refers to the state or quality of being fast, steadfast, or secure. It describes the condition of being firmly fixed or secure, whether in terms of physical strength, durability, or resilience. In this sense, fastness can imply something that is difficult to move, dislodge, or break. It can also refer to attributes such as stability, firmness, or immovability.
The term also encompasses the quality of being swift, rapid, or quick. In this context, fastness pertains to the speed at which something moves or operates. It may imply a high degree of velocity or quickness in accomplishing a task or reaching a destination.
Furthermore, fastness can also denote a stronghold, fortress, or defensive position. It conveys the idea of protection, security, and impregnability.
The term is frequently associated with various aspects of nature, such as the quickness of a flowing stream or the strength and stability of a mountain. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a person's mental or emotional resilience and steadfastness.
In summary, fastness encompasses different dimensions. It can refer to being strong, stable, secure, or unyielding, as well as denote speed, agility, and quickness. Whether pertaining to physical or metaphorical attributes, fastness encapsulates the concepts of strength, swiftness, and resilience.
• A stronghold; a place of unbroken defence.
• See fast.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* 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.
The word "fastness" has multiple origins.
The first origin comes from the Old English word "fæsten", which means "fortress" or "stronghold". This Old English term ultimately derives from the Old Norse word "festr", meaning "fastening" or "fixing".
The second origin comes from the Old English word "fæstnes", which means "firmness" or "steadiness". This word is related to the Proto-Germanic word "fastuz", meaning "firm" or "secure".
Both of these Old English terms ultimately derive from the Proto-Indo-European root "paste", meaning "make firm" or "hold tightly". The root "paste" also gave rise to words like "paste" (a sticky substance), "pasteurize" (to treat food to eliminate bacteria), and "pastiche" (an artistic work imitating different styles).