impatiently

Impatiently describes the way someone acts when they are eager for an event or outcome and find waiting difficult. The adverb commonly conveys irritation, restlessness, or urgency: a person may tap their foot, repeat questions, or look repeatedly at the clock while waiting. It can also imply that the expected event is taking longer than desired. In everyday conversation, the expression is often used neutrally to describe one’s own behavior, as in “I was waiting impatiently for the train,” though it can sound slightly critical when used about other people. The word is related to the adjective “impatient” and the noun “impatience,” all of which derive from the idea of enduring or tolerating a delay with difficulty. Impatiently is useful when you want to describe not merely an action performed quickly, but the impatient attitude visible in that action.

In a manner showing unwillingness to wait; with impatience or urgency.

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Where does impatiently come from?

The adverb comes from the adjective “impatient,” which was formed in the late Middle English period from the Latin prefix im- meaning “not” and the Latin participle patiens, meaning “enduring” or “suffering.” The Latin word passed into English through Old French, where it developed into forms meaning both “tolerant” and “tired of waiting.” The modern sense of “restless because of delay” became established during the 16th century, and the adverb was formed by adding the suffix -ly.

Related word forms

How impatiently is actually used

The word is commonly used to describe behavior that reveals irritation, restlessness, or an unwillingness to wait. It can be mildly critical when applied to other people, but is often self-deprecating when describing the speaker.

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Words and phrases paired with impatiently

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