Impetuous

Pronunciation

• IPA: /imˈpÉ›tʃuÉ™s/

Origin

From Middle English, from Old French impetueux, from Late Latin impetuōsus ("violent"), from Latin impetus ("attack").

Full definition of impetuous

Adjective

1. Making arbitrary decisions, especially in an impulsive and forceful manner.
• 1880, John Weeks Moore, Complete Encyclopaedia of Music, "":But it was natural, that the impetuous, restless young artist should incline more to excess of strength than of delicacy in his playing.
2. Characterized by sudden and violent force.
• 1794, Ann Radcliffe, , vol. II, :He stands, and views in the faint rays
  Far, far below, the torrent's rising surge,
  And listens to the wild impetuous roar

Synonyms

• impulsive
• hasty
• rash
• hotheaded