Moving at high velocity, or the traffic violation of driving faster than the legal limit.
From Old English sped 'success, prosperity,' related to spowan 'to succeed.' Originally meant 'thriving' or 'prospering,' not velocity. The sense of rapid motion developed in Middle English, while the traffic violation meaning emerged with automobile laws in the early 20th century.
Originally, to 'speed' meant to prosper or succeed - 'Godspeed' still preserves this meaning, wishing someone success on their journey! The shift from 'prospering' to 'going fast' reflects how success became associated with efficiency and rapid progress in modern times.
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