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.
And this impatience doesn’t just stop with research. — Christian B. Miller, The Conversation, 4 June 2026 Cars honked – not in impatience as their egress was completely stalled by streams of fans, but in solidarity. — Hannah Keyser, CNN Money, 14 June 2026 Field has also been directed to bark her lines, as though impatience was an essential component of old age. — Peter Tonguette, The Washington Examiner, 30 May 2026 As frustrations mount and impatience grows, some experts say the state is simply doing its due diligence to ensure every voter's voice is heard. — Austin Turner, CBS News, 4 June 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 7 Jul. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on impatience

Nglish: Translation of impatience for Spanish Speakers

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