Pronunciation: pri- ' si-p ə -t ə t
Function: adjective
Date: 1615
1 a : falling, flowing, or rushing with steep descent b : PRECIPITOUS , STEEP
2 : exhibiting violent or unwise speed
– pre · cip · i · tate · ly adverb
– pre · cip · i · tate · ness noun
synonyms PRECIPITATE , HEADLONG , ABRUPT , IMPETUOUS , SUDDEN mean showing undue haste or unexpectedness. PRECIPITATE stresses lack of due deliberation and implies prematureness of action <the army's precipitate withdrawal>. HEADLONG stresses rashness and lack of forethought <a headlong flight from arrest>. ABRUPT stresses curtness and a lack of warning or ceremony <an abrupt refusal>. IMPETUOUS stresses extreme impatience or impulsiveness <an impetuous lover proposing marriage>. SUDDEN stresses unexpectedness and sharpness or violence of action <flew into a sudden rage>.