impetuous
UK: ɪmˈpetʃ.u.əs | US: ɪmˈpetʃ.u.əs
adj. acting or done quickly and without thought or care; impulsive
adj. moving forcefully or rapidly
impetuous = im<toward> + pet<seek> + uous<adjective suffix>
- im<toward>: From Latin in- (variant of im- before p), meaning "toward" or "into."
- pet<seek>: From Latin petere, meaning "to seek, aim, rush at."
- uous<adjective suffix>: Latin -uosus, forming adjectives indicating a tendency or full of a quality.
Etymology Origin:
The word impetuous traces back to Latin impetuosus, derived from impetus (a rushing force). The root petere (to seek/aim) evolved into the sense of "rushing forward," reflecting urgency or lack of restraint. Over time, impetuous came to describe actions driven by sudden energy rather than deliberation, mirroring the original Latin idea of forceful motion.
His impetuous decision to quit his job surprised everyone.
The impetuous river carved its way through the valley.
She regretted her impetuous words as soon as they left her mouth.
The impetuous wind knocked over the fragile garden decorations.
Teenagers are often criticized for their impetuous behavior.