hasten

/ˈheɪsən/

Reviewed on

Type

Verb

  • Formal

Meaning

  1. To cause something to happen sooner or more quickly.

    • A poor diet and chronic lack of sleep will only hasten the aging process.

    • Did the sudden drop in interest rates hasten the company's decision to expand?

  2. To move or act with speed.

    • She hastened to the departure gate after hearing the final boarding call.

    • The pedestrians hastened across the street before the storm began.

How it's used

When this means “cause something to happen sooner”

  • hasten the process

“hastened it.”

The unexpected scandal hastened his departure from public office.

When this means “move quickly to a place”

  • hastened to the gate

“hastened there.”

Paramedics hastened to the scene of the accident.

Collocations

  • hasten the demise
  • hasten to add

Synonyms

  • accelerate
  • speed up
  • hurry
  • rush

Antonyms