breakneck

[ breyk-nek ]

adjective

1. reckless or dangerous, especially because of excessive speed; hazardous:

   He raced through the streets at breakneck speed.

breakneck

/ ˈbreɪkˌnɛk /

adjective

1. prenominal (of speed, pace, etc) excessive and dangerous

Word History and Origins

Origin of breakneck¹

First recorded in 1555–65; break + neck

Example Sentences

Perhaps due to this breakneck speed and his lack of knowledge about the affected area, Steinbeck made serious mistakes and omissions that numerous scholars have thoroughly documented.

From Salon

There is barely any cover, and so we drive at breakneck speed in order to protect ourselves against Russian drone attacks.

From BBC

He said the groundwater law is bringing changes “at a breakneck pace” without considering the effects on communities.

From Los Angeles Times

But supporters of Ms Harris insist that given the breakneck nature of her candidacy, she is taking things at a smart pace.

From BBC

The result has been the breakneck development of companies like BYD, now vying with Tesla for the title of the world’s biggest manufacturer of electric vehicles.

From BBC

Related Words

• headlong
• rapid