Rapid Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
⚡️
rapid
[ˈræpɪd ]
Definitions
fast speed
Moving, acting, or occurring with great speed. Happening in a short time or at a fast pace. Characterized by high speed.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| rapid |
Used to describe something happening very quickly, often in scientific or technical contexts.
|
| quick |
Often used to describe something done in a short amount of time, focusing on the immediacy of action.
|
| fast |
Commonly used to describe speed associated with movement, actions, or reactions.
|
| swift |
Typically used in more poetic or formal situations to describe something moving or happening very quickly.
|
Examples of usage
- The car accelerated at a rapid pace.
- She spoke in a rapid manner, barely pausing for breath.
- The rapid growth of technology has changed our lives.
river
A fast-flowing river. A part of a river where the current runs swiftly.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| rapid |
Used to describe something happening very quickly, often in a short amount of time.
|
| fast-flowing |
Typically used to describe water moving quickly, such as rivers or streams.
|
| swift |
Often used to describe something moving quickly with grace or efficiency; can apply to actions or physical movement.
|
| torrent |
Usually refers to a strong and fast-moving stream of water or a sudden large quantity of something, often suggesting intensity and sometimes destructive force.
|
Examples of usage
- The canoeists navigated through the rapids of the river.
- The fishermen enjoyed the challenge of fishing in the rapids.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In physics, 'rapid' often describes the quickness of an object's movement, especially in relation to forces acting on it.
- Biologically, certain animals are classified as rapid predators, reflecting their fast hunting techniques that adapt to their environments.
- In meteorology, rapid changes in weather can lead to sudden storms, emphasizing the importance of monitoring speed in environmental studies.
Pop Culture
- Movies and video games often feature plots that revolve around rapid action sequences, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.
- The phrase 'rapid response' is frequently used in emergency services, showcasing the importance of quick action in critical situations.
- Popular music frequently references rapid emotions or quick changes in feelings, mirroring the fast-paced nature of modern life.
History
- During the Industrial Revolution, technological advancements led to rapid urbanization as people flocked to cities for work.
- The development of the internet has enabled rapid information exchange, transforming communication and business practices.
- Historical events, like wars or revolutions, often exhibit rapid shifts in power dynamics, affecting many lives within a short timeframe.
Psychology
- Research shows that rapid decision-making can sometimes lead to better outcomes, as it relies on instinct rather than overthinking.
- In cognitive psychology, rapid changes in mood or perception can signal certain mental health conditions, highlighting the human mind's adaptability.
- The concept of rapid cognition suggests that our brains can make fast evaluations based on minimal information, influencing our judgments.
Origin of 'rapid'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'rapidus', which means 'seizing' or 'grasping', related to how something can quickly take hold or affect something else.
- It has been used in English since the late 14th century to describe swift movement, indicating the valor of certain actions.
- Over time, the term has evolved to apply not just to physical speed but also to processes, like rapid changes in technology or ideas.
The word 'rapid' originated from the Latin word 'rapidus', meaning swift or quick. It has been used in English since the 17th century to describe something moving or occurring with great speed. Over time, 'rapid' has become a common term to express fast speed or quickness in various contexts.