adj., adv., n., & v.
adj. 1 operating at high speed. 2 also a definitely stated, not merely implied. b archaic (of a likeness) exact. 3 a done, made, or sent for a special purpose. b (of messages or goods) delivered by a special messenger or service.
adv. 1 at high speed. 2 by express messenger or train.
n. 1 a an express train or messenger. b an express rifle. 2 US a company undertaking the transport of parcels etc.
v.tr. send by express messenger or delivery. express rifle a rifle that discharges a bullet at high speed. express train a fast train, stopping at few intermediate stations. expressly adv. (in sense 2 of adj.).
[ ME f. OF expres f. L expressus distinctly shown, past part. of exprimere (as EX-(1), premere press) ]