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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

headlong Synonyms

headlong

modif.

reckless, precipitate, impetuous; see rash.

headlong Quotes

Headlong themselves they threw Down from the verge of heaven, eternal wrath Burnt after them to the bottomless pit.

—Milton,John

Shall I leave all this constant company, And follow headlong, wild uncertain thee?

—Donne,John

When his darling sons Hurled headlong to partake with us, shall curse Their frail original, and faded bliss, Faded so soon.

—Milton,John

Browse dictionary entries near headlong

  1. ‹ headlock
  2. ‹ headliner
  3. ‹ headline
  4. ‹ headlight
  5. ‹ headless
  6. ‹ headland
  7. ‹ headlamp
  8. ‹ heading
  9. ‹ headiness
  10. ‹ headily
  1. headman ›
  2. headmaster ›
  3. headmistress ›
  4. headmost ›
  5. headnote ›
  6. headphone ›
  7. headpiece ›
  8. headpin ›
  9. headquarters ›
  10. headrace ›