Entry Word: fastness

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 a high rate of movement or performance <the fastness with which the boy took his shower had us wondering if heʼd used any water> — see speed
2 a structure or place from which one can resist attack <the guerillas retreated to their network of hidden fastnesses deep within the mountains> — see fort
3 adherence to something to which one is bound by a pledge or duty <his fastness to the cause of freedom was beyond question> — see fidelity