impatience

noun

im·​pa·​tience (ˌ)im-ˈpā-shən(t)s How to pronounce impatience (audio)
: the quality or state of being impatient

Examples of impatience in a Sentence

the child's impatience for Christmas morning is engaging
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The face, more squarely adult now, has a certitude in the jaw and an impatience in the eyes. Nathan Heller, Vogue, 14 Oct. 2025 What stirs the last phrase is an impatience with cliché. Anthony Lane, New Yorker, 13 Oct. 2025 Public impatience with the war in Gaza is understandable. Aviva Klompas, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Oct. 2025 By avoiding impatience and confrontation, Taylor says everyone can enjoy the treasure hunt. Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for impatience

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of impatience was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Impatience.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/impatience. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

impatience

noun
im·​pa·​tience (ˈ)im-ˈpā-shən(t)s How to pronounce impatience (audio)
1
: lack of patience
2
: restless or eager desire

More from Merriam-Webster on impatience

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