rapid-fire

adjective

rap·​id-fire ˌra-pəd-ˈfī(-ə)r 

1

: firing or adapted for firing shots in rapid succession

2

: marked by rapidity, liveliness, or sharpness

a comedian with a rapid-fire delivery

Synonyms of rapid-fire

• rapid
• brisk
• quick
• fast
• galloping

Examples of rapid-fire in a Sentence

the witness stayed unruffled all through the prosecutor's rapid-fire questioning

Recent Examples on the Web

The rapid-fire induction into Hollywell’s home, indoors and outdoors, is overwhelming in a staggering way. — Nina Corcoran, Pitchfork, 21 Oct. 2026

That includes Hot Minute, a rapid-fire Q&A; My First Band Tee, which invites artists to reflect on their first band T-shirts; and Behind the Tee Wall, a conversation about their music and what’s ahead. — Alicia Urrea, Billboard, 21 Oct. 2026

Vance speaks with the manipulative skill of a politician who has cultivated a rapid-fire style designed not to persuade, but to overwhelm. — Arkansas Online, 16 Oct. 2026

But doubts remain about whether the legislation can keep pace with AI’s rapid-fire development. — Hanna Ziady, CNN Money, 14 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for rapid-fire

• mcintire
• admire
• afire
• aspire
• backfire
• esquire
• expire
• haywire
• hellfire
• inquire
• inspire
• newswire

Kids Definition

rapid-fire

adjective

rap·​id-fire

ˌrap-əd-ˈfī(ə)r

1

: able to fire shots rapidly

a rapid-fire weapon

2

: marked by a rapid rate or pace

spoke rapid-fire Spanish