double time

¹

noun

1. U.S. Army. the fastest rate of marching troops, a slow jog in which 180 paces, each of 3 feet (0.9 meters), are taken in a minute.
2. a slow run by troops in step.
3. a rate of overtime pay that is twice the regular wage rate.

double-time

²

[ duhb-uhl-tahym ]

verb (used with object)

, dou·ble-timed, dou·ble-tim·ing.

1. to cause to move in double time:

   Double-time the troops to the mess hall.

verb (used without object)

, dou·ble-timed, dou·ble-tim·ing.

1. to move in double time.

double time

noun

1. a doubled wage rate, paid for working on public holidays, etc
2. music
   1. a time twice as fast as an earlier section
   2. two beats per bar
3. a slow running pace, keeping in step
4. army a fast march of 180 paces to the minute

verb

1. to move or cause to move in double time

Word History and Origins

Origin of double time¹

First recorded in 1850–55

Origin of double time²

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

"Double time," the captain shouted, as Jahi and his tribesmen plunged through the bush at a pace too swift for even Peter Gross.

From Project Gutenberg

He marches in double time,—runs,—with an easy swinging stride which requires no effort on the part of the muscles of the body.

From Project Gutenberg

No explanation for the delay seemed necessary and the interrupted hike was presently doing double time over the fragrant by-paths.

From Project Gutenberg

If marching in double time, the command double time is omitted.

From Project Gutenberg

If at a halt, or if marching in quick time, the command double time precedes the command of execution.

From Project Gutenberg