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

1 archaic : prosperity in an undertaking : success
2 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 : impetus
3 : swiftness or rate of performance or action : velocity 3a
4 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 open
5 : 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