rapid

UK: ˈræpɪd | US: ˈræpɪd

Definition

  1. adj. happening or moving very quickly

  2. n. (usually plural) a fast-flowing, turbulent part of a river

Structure
rap <seize, swift>id <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word rapid originates from the Latin rapidus, derived from rapere ("to seize or snatch"). The core idea of swiftness comes from the notion of something being "carried away quickly." Over time, rapid evolved in English to describe anything fast-moving, whether literal (e.g., water currents) or metaphorical (e.g., progress).

Examples

  1. The rapid growth of the city surprised everyone.

  2. She made rapid progress in learning the language.

  3. The boat struggled to navigate the river's rapids.

  4. His rapid response saved the situation.

  5. Technological advancements are occurring at a rapid pace.