haste

Definition of hastenext

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun haste contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of haste are dispatch, expedition, hurry, and speed. While all these words mean "quickness in movement or action," haste applies to personal action and implies urgency and precipitancy and often rashness.

marry in haste

How are the words expedition and dispatch related as synonyms of haste?

Expedition and dispatch both imply speed and efficiency in handling affairs but expedition stresses ease or efficiency of performance and dispatch stresses promptness in concluding matters.

the case came to trial with expedition
paid bills with dispatch

When could hurry be used to replace haste?

The words hurry and haste are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, hurry often has a strong suggestion of agitated bustle or confusion.

in the hurry of departure she forgot her toothbrush

When can speed be used instead of haste?

The words speed and haste can be used in similar contexts, but speed suggests swift efficiency in movement or action.

exercises to increase your reading speed

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of haste Its abandonment, with powder canisters spilling across the rock, suggested that its owner left in haste. Henry Wismayer, Travel + Leisure, 7 Jan. 2026 In my closest friend who listens without haste. Peter Folan, Boston Herald, 24 Dec. 2025 Hundreds of residents and tourists ran away from the gunfire, many throwing off their shoes in their haste to escape. Hilary Whiteman, CNN Money, 14 Dec. 2025 The agreements with Saudi Arabia and the UAE were brokered in haste and behind closed doors. Daniel Benaim, Foreign Affairs, 9 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for haste
Recent Examples of Synonyms for haste
Noun
  • Guests are guaranteed to speak to at least 10 people and continue the conversations during a singles mixer after the speed dating concludes.
    Alyson Rodriguez, Dallas Morning News, 1 Feb. 2026
  • However, digital save-the-dates are gaining traction for their speed, cost efficiency, and eco-friendly appeal.
    K.H. Koehler, jsonline.com, 1 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Swishahouse became synonymous with innovation, hustle, and community, producing legendary mixtapes, shaping radio culture, and influencing generations of artists across hip-hop and beyond.
    Michael Saponara, Billboard, 31 Jan. 2026
  • Dufu encouraged speed not for hustle’s sake, but for clarity’s.
    Alli Kushner, Forbes.com, 29 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • The firm highlighted the feat makes Bolt the first humanoid robot of its size to reach such velocities outside the lab.
    Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 4 Feb. 2026
  • Ayers has a plus arm and has plus power, flashing it more in the Arizona Fall League last year (where his exit velocity peaked at 111 mph) than in the regular season, since Myrtle Beach is a graveyard for would-be home runs.
    Keith Law, New York Times, 4 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The ‘combination’ fix for the Panthers’ pass rush Morgan hasn’t been shy about criticizing his team’s lack of pass rushing production in 2025 since the Panthers’ brief playoff run concluded earlier this month.
    Mike Kaye Updated January 26, Charlotte Observer, 26 Jan. 2026
  • The Los Angeles County Republican Party, however, cautioned against a rush to judgment in what is certain to be another highly volatile case.
    Madeline Armstrong, Daily News, 25 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Paper towels are a household staple and for good reason—they're convenient, disposable, and perfect for tackling spills in a hurry.
    Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 31 Jan. 2026
  • An adjustable toggle on the back can be tightened to lock in warmth and keep snow from getting in, while the front zipper makes these easy to slip on and off in a hurry.
    Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 29 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Some people went for a jog, others brought out their pets for a taste of the frozen precipitation blanketing the Charlotte region on Saturday.
    Emily Broyles, Charlotte Observer, 31 Jan. 2026
  • Where temperatures are lowest and wintry precipitation is likely, the National Weather Service has issued numerous cold and winter weather alerts across the Southeastern United States.
    Mary Wasson, Austin American Statesman, 31 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Haste.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/haste. Accessed 6 Feb. 2026.

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