fast
UK: fɑːst | US: fæst
adj. moving or capable of moving at high speed
adj. firmly fixed or attached
adv. at high speed
vi. abstain from food, especially for religious reasons
The word "fast" has a fascinating dual evolution. In Old English, fæst meant "firmly fixed" (e.g., "hold fast"), derived from Proto-Germanic fastuz. This sense survives in phrases like "fasten" or "steadfast." The "quick" meaning emerged later (14th century), likely from the idea of "firmly pursuing a course" (e.g., "run fast"). The verb form (to abstain from food) comes from Old English fæstan, originally meaning "to hold firm to observance."
The cheetah is the fastest land animal.
Make sure the rope is fast before climbing.
She drove fast to reach the hospital.
Many people fast during Ramadan.
The colors won’t fade because they’re fast-dyed.