What does rushing mean?
Rushing means moving, acting, or making progress with unusual speed and urgency. In everyday use, it often suggests that someone is hurrying because time is short or because they are impatient: a person may rush to catch a train, rush through breakfast, or rush into a decision. The word can carry a negative implication, suggesting that speed has come at the expense of care, accuracy, or good judgment. It is also used more neutrally when speed is necessary or expected, such as in “rushing water” or “the rushing crowd.” Although “rush” is related in meaning to speed and haste, “rushing” specifically describes the action of moving or doing something rapidly. It is common in both formal and informal English, but evaluative contexts often emphasize the potential consequences of hurrying.
To move or do something with great haste or urgency.
"They rushed to finish the presentation before the meeting began."
Often used when speed is urgent, although it can also suggest that adequate care or planning has been neglected.
Moving or occurring with great speed or urgency.
"A rushing stream passed beneath the bridge."
This participial use is common in descriptive writing and in phrases such as “rushing water.”
The rush of a crowd is the sound of many people moving fast—and sometimes the difference between a smooth arrival and a chaotic scramble.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does rushing come from?
The word “rushing” comes from the English verb “rush,” whose origins are uncertain and probably involve an Old English word associated with forceful movement. The verb developed into its modern sense of moving quickly or acting with haste. Related forms include “rusher” and “rushed,” while “rush” remains the basic root from which the present participle is formed.
Related word forms
How rushing is actually used
In its most common sense, this word suggests speed and urgency. It can imply carelessness or a lack of planning, as in “rushing into a decision.” The expression “rush hour” refers to the period when traffic is especially heavy.
Easily confused with rushing
To rush means to move or act quickly and urgently, whereas to rustle means to make a soft sound through movement.