Main Entry:

¹speed

Pronunciation:

\ˈspēd\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English spede, from Old English spēd; akin to Old High German spuot prosperity, speed, Old English spōwan to succeed, Latin spes hope, Lithuanian spėti to be in time

Date:

before 12th century

1archaic : prosperity in an undertaking : success2 a: the act or state of moving swiftly : swiftness b: rate of motion: as (1): velocity 1 (2): the magnitude of a velocity irrespective of direction c: impetus3: swiftness or rate of performance or action : velocity 3a4 a: the sensitivity of a photographic film, plate, or paper expressed numerically b: the light-gathering power of a lens or optical system c: the time during which a camera shutter is open5: a transmission gear in automotive vehicles or bicycles —usually used in combination <a ten-speed bicycle>6: someone or something that appeals to one's taste <just my speed>7: methamphetamine ; also : a related stimulant drug and especially an amphetamine

synonyms see haste

— speed·ster \ˈspēd-stər\ noun

— at speed

chiefly British : fast, rapidly

— up to speed

: operating at full effectiveness or potential