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.
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 The Moon in your sign squares Jupiter, making confidence, frustration, desire, or impatience harder to moderate. — Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 13 Oct. 2026 Extreme stress, impatience, or intoxication are major red flags that can lead to negative experiences or removal from flights. — Joey Skladany, Travel + Leisure, 29 Sep. 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 20 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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