Fastness: meaning, definitions and examples

Note: There are two meanings of 'fastness'. The first usage has been explained previously. The second usage refers to a place of safety or refuge, especially in a mountainous area.

• The rebels retreated to their fastness in the mountains.
• The explorers finally found the hidden fastness after days of searching.

Use 'speed' to broadly refer to how fast something or someone is, the most general and commonly used term.

• The car's speed exceeded the limit.
• She ran with incredible speed to catch the bus.

Use 'quickness' to focus on a person's or thing’s ability to react or move quickly, often highlighting sharpness, intelligence, or mental agility.

• Her quickness of mind impressed the interviewers.
• The quickness of his response saved the situation from escalating.

Use 'rapidity' to describe the rate at which something happens, emphasizing speed and often used in scientific or formal contexts.

• The rapidity of technological advancement is astonishing.
• They were amazed by the rapidity with which the disease spread.

Used to describe a strong, secure, and often remote place. It’s often associated with a fortress or a place of refuge.

• The rebels retreated to their mountain fastness.
• The fastness of the castle ensured the safety of those within.

Relates to the quality or state of being physically strong, but it can also refer to solid or powerful attributes in other contexts such as character or materials.

• He has the strength to lift heavy weights.
• The strength of the bridge was tested during the storm.

Refers to mental and emotional strength in facing difficulty, adversity, or danger. It often denotes courage and resilience.

• She showed great fortitude during the crisis.
• His fortitude was evident as he dealt with the loss of his loved ones.

Used to describe the state of being steady and unchanging. It can refer to physical objects, emotions, financial conditions, or political situations.

• The stability of the building was ensured by its strong foundation.
• Political stability is essential for economic growth.

Fastness is often used to describe something that is secure, stable, or immovable. It can be used in both physical and metaphorical contexts, such as a fortress or an unshakable belief.

• The fastness of the mountain made it a perfect place for the castle
• His fastness in his principles impressed everyone

Loyalty is used to describe a firm and constant support or allegiance to a person, institution, or cause. It is often related to friendships, work, or patriotism.

• Her loyalty to the company made her an invaluable employee
• The knight's loyalty to his king was never in question

Faithfulness refers to remaining loyal and steadfast, often used when discussing relationships or commitments. It highlights consistency and trustworthiness.

• The dog's faithfulness to its owner was remarkable
• Their faithfulness in marriage was admired by everyone they knew

Devotion typically implies a strong sense of love, dedication, or commitment, often used in the context of love, religion, or a cause.

• Her devotion to her children was evident in everything she did
• His lifelong devotion to social justice earned him great respect