impatience

noun

im·​pa·​tience (ˌ)im-ˈpā-shən(t)s 

: the quality or state of being impatient

Synonyms of impatience

• enthusiasm
• thirst
• excitement
• hunger
• appetite

Examples of impatience in a Sentence

the child's impatience for Christmas morning is engaging

Recent Examples on the Web

Connecting a call within one exchange took twenty-two seconds, longer for transfers, and, where technology is concerned, impatience springs eternal. — Cal Revely-Calder, New Yorker, 2 Nov. 2026

He wasn’t necessarily expected to make this team, and there was considerable impatience surrounding his development path. — Thomas Drance, New York Times, 28 Oct. 2026

Expectations are running high and so is impatience after public discontent built over years. — ABC News, 27 Oct. 2026

According to Singhal, common signs include procrastination, impatience, feeling overwhelmed, and putting off decisions altogether. — Kriti Kumar, Vogue, 24 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for impatience

• patience

Kids Definition

impatience

noun

im·​pa·​tience (ˈ)im-ˈpā-shən(t)s 

1

: lack of patience

2

: restless or eager desire