1. n. & v.
--n.
1. a a single step in walking or running. b the distance covered in this (about 75 cm or 30 in.). c the distance between two successive stationary positions of the same foot in walking.
2 speed in walking or running.
3 Theatr. & Mus. speed or tempo in theatrical or musical performance (played with great pace).
4 a rate of progression.
5 a a manner of walking or running; a gait. b any of various gaits, esp. of a trained horse etc. (rode at an ambling pace).
--v.
1. intr. a walk (esp. repeatedly or methodically) with a slow or regular pace (pacing up and down). b (of a horse) AMBLE.
2 tr. traverse by pacing.
3 tr. set the pace for (a rider, runner, etc.).
4 tr. (foll. by out) measure (a distance) by pacing.
Phrases and idioms:
keep pace (often foll. by with) advance at an equal rate (as). pace bowler Cricket a bowler who delivers the ball at high speed without spin. pace-setter
1. a leader.
2 PACEMAKER 1. put a person through his (or her) paces test a person's qualities in action etc. set the pace determine the speed, esp. by leading. stand (or stay) the pace be able to keep up with others.
Derivatives:
-paced adj. pacer n.
Etymology: ME f. OF pas f. L passus f. pandere pass- stretch 2.
prep. (in stating a contrary opinion) with due deference to (the person named).
Etymology: L, ablat. of pax peace