headlong Hear it!

headlong definition

head·long (hed′lôŋ′)

adverb

  1. with the head first; headfirst
  2. with uncontrolled speed and force
  3. recklessly; rashly; impetuously

Etymology: LME hedlong, altered (by assoc. with along) < ME hedelinge(s) < hede, head + -linge, adv. suffix

adjective

  1. Old Poet. steep; dizzy; precipitous a headlong height
  2. with or done with the head first or foremost; headfirst
  3. moving with uncontrolled speed and force
  4. reckless; impetuous

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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