IPA: //fæst//
KK: /fæst/
Able to move or act quickly; happening in a short amount of time.
The cheetah is the fastest land animal, capable of running at incredible speeds.
Comparative: faster
Superlative: fastest
In a quick manner; at a high speed.
She runs fast to catch the bus.
To abstain from eating food, often for a period of time, usually for religious or health reasons.
Many people choose to fast during Ramadan as a way to practice self-discipline.
Past: fasted
Past Participle: fasted
The act of not eating food for a period of time, often for religious or health reasons.
During Ramadan, many people observe a fast from dawn until sunset.
The word 'fast' originates from Old English 'fæst', meaning firmly fixed or steadfast. It conveys the idea of being secure or stable, which has evolved into the modern meanings of quickness or speed.
Think of something that is 'firmly fixed' — that's how 'fast' relates to being quick or secure.