impatience

noun

im·​pa·​tience (ˌ)im-ˈpā-shən(t)s How to pronounce impatience (audio)
: the quality or state of being impatient

Examples of impatience in a Sentence

the child's impatience for Christmas morning is engaging
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Take your time, don’t rush decisions and refuse to let someone’s impatience push you in an uncertain direction. Eugenia Last, The Mercury News, 23 Oct. 2024 Fans of the sitcom Girlfriends will be familiar with the impulsive impatience of Joan Clayton. Kelle Salle, refinery29.com, 12 Apr. 2024 Lawmakers also voiced impatience with Cheatle's vague answers and 60-day timeline for an internal review of the planning and response to the shooting. Bart Jansen, USA TODAY, 22 July 2024 More grievously, the movie’s narrowness and impatience inhibit the performance of its formidably talented lead actress. Richard Brody, The New Yorker, 9 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for impatience 

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of impatience was in the 13th century

Dictionary Entries Near impatience

Cite this Entry

“Impatience.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/impatience. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

impatience

noun
im·​pa·​tience (ˈ)im-ˈpā-shən(t)s How to pronounce impatience (audio)
1
: lack of patience
2
: restless or eager desire

More from Merriam-Webster on impatience

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