Langimage
English

impatient

|im/pa/tient|

B2

/ɪmˈpeɪʃənt/

easily irritated

Etymology
Etymology Information

'impatient' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'impatientem,' where 'im-' meant 'not' and 'patientem' meant 'bearing, enduring.'

Historical Evolution

'impatientem' transformed into the Old French word 'impatient,' and eventually became the modern English word 'impatient' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'not enduring or bearing,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'quickly irritated or provoked.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

having or showing a tendency to be quickly irritated or provoked.

She was impatient with the slow service.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35