impatience

noun

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

Synonyms of impatience

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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.
According to Singhal, common signs include procrastination, impatience, feeling overwhelmed, and putting off decisions altogether. — Kriti Kumar, Vogue, 24 Oct. 2026 Having watched supposedly secure systems fail has given many an irreverence for authority and an impatience with grand theories. — Harry Booth, Time, 20 Oct. 2026 Duckworth, who has urged colleagues to focus on getting back to work, has also signaled deep impatience with her party’s caution. — Daniel C. Vock, Chicago Tribune, 18 Oct. 2026 This is all already aggravating because Rainbeau’s tone and impatience were hardly the issue last season. — Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 13 Oct. 2026 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

Rhymes for impatience

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Browse Nearby Words

impaternate
impatience
impatiency
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Cite this Entry

“Impatience.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/impatience. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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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
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