— impetuously , adv. — impetuousness , n.
/im pech"ooh euhs/ , adj.
1. of, pertaining to, or characterized by sudden or rash action, emotion, etc.; impulsive: an impetuous decision; an impetuous person.
2. having great impetus; moving with great force; violent: the impetuous winds.
[ 1350-1400; ME impetuosus, equiv. to L impetu ( s ) IMPETUS + -osus -OUS ]
Syn. 1. eager, headlong. IMPETUOUS, IMPULSIVE both refer to persons who are hasty and precipitate in action, or to actions not preceded by thought. IMPETUOUS suggests eagerness, violence, rashness: impetuous vivacity; impetuous desire; impetuous words. IMPULSIVE emphasizes spontaneity and lack of reflection: an impulsive act of generosity.
Ant. 1. planned, careful.