Festine

/ˈfɛstɪn/ adjective

Definition

Characterized by or showing haste; moving or acting with speed (archaic or rare usage).

Etymology

From Latin 'festinus' meaning 'quick' or 'hasty,' directly related to 'festinare.' This adjective form is rarely used in modern English, surviving mainly in specialized historical or literary contexts.

Kelly Says

This word is basically the English language's dusty attic—we kept the noun 'festination' for medicine but let the adjective 'festine' gather cobwebs, even though it's perfectly useful for describing anything done in a rush.

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