fast1
adj.
- moving or capable of moving at high speed.
▸taking place or acting rapidly.
- (of a clock or watch) showing a time ahead of the correct time.
- firmly fixed or attached.
▸(of friends) close and loyal.
▸(of a dye) not fading in light or when washed.
- Photography needing only a short exposure.
- involving or engaging in exciting or shocking activities.
adv.
- at high speed.
▸within a short time.
- so as to be firmly fixed.
- so as to be hard to wake:
fast asleep.
Phrase
- pull a fast one
informal try to gain an unfair advantage.
Etymology
OE fæst ‘firmly fixed, steadfast’ and fæste ‘firmly, securely’, of Gmc origin.
fast2
v.
abstain from food or drink.
n.
an act or period of fasting.
Etymology
OE fæstan (v.), of Gmc origin.