headlong
Headlong (adv) means Head first, or with reckless, unrestrained speed. Example: “He dove headlong into the pool without checking the depth.”
How to use headlong
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishRushing forward carelessly or at full speed, without stopping to think.
Word forms
more headlong comparative, headlonged past tense, headlongs singular, most headlong superlative
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Can you complete this real example?
He dove _____ into the pool without checking the depth.
Etymology
From Middle English hedlong, an old form reshaped by association with the word long, ultimately tied to head.
Synonyms
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Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “headlong” mean?
The word “headlong” means head first, or with reckless, unrestrained speed. In plain terms, rushing forward carelessly or at full speed, without stopping to think.
How do you pronounce “headlong”?
“Headlong” is pronounced HEHD-long (/ˈhɛd.lɔŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “headlong” in a sentence?
Here is “headlong” used in a sentence: “He dove headlong into the pool without checking the depth.”
What is the opposite of “headlong”?
The opposite of “headlong” — its antonyms — is arselong.
What part of speech is “headlong”?
Depending on how it is used, “headlong” can be an adverb and an adjective.
Where does the word “headlong” come from?
The word “headlong” comes from Middle English. From Middle English hedlong, an old form reshaped by association with the word long, ultimately tied to head.
How many meanings does “headlong” have?
“Headlong” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: head first, or with reckless, unrestrained speed.