n.
Pronunciation: ' sp ē d
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English spede, from Old English sp ē d; akin to Old High German spuot prosperity, speed, Old English sp ō wan to succeed, Latin spes hope, Lithuanian sp ė ti to be in time
Date: before 12th century
1 archaic : prosperity in an undertaking : SUCCESS
2 a : the act or state of moving swiftly : SWIFTNESS b : rate of motion: as (1) : VELOCITY 1 (2) : the magnitude of a velocity irrespective of direction c : IMPETUS
3 : swiftness or rate of performance or action : VELOCITY 3A
4 a : the sensitivity of a photographic film, plate, or paper expressed numerically b : the light-gathering power of a lens or optical system c : the time during which a camera shutter is open
5 : a transmission gear in automotive vehicles or bicycles ― usually used in combination <a ten- speed bicycle>
6 : someone or something that appeals to one's taste <just my speed >
7 : METHAMPHETAMINE also : a related stimulant drug and especially an amphetamine
synonyms see HASTE
– speed · ster \ ' sp ē d-st ə r \ noun
– at speed
chiefly British : FAST , RAPIDLY
– up to speed : operating at full effectiveness or potential