impatience

[ im-pey-shuhns ]

noun

1. lack of patience.
2. eager desire for relief or change; restlessness.
3. intolerance of anything that thwarts, delays, or hinders.

impatience

/ ɪmˈpeɪʃəns /

noun

1. lack of patience; intolerance of or irritability with anything that impedes or delays
2. restless desire for change and excitement

Word History and Origins

Origin of impatience¹

First recorded in 1175–1225; Middle English impacience, from Latin impatientia; im- ², patience

Example Sentences

But make no mistake, impatience with the deliberative approach to death penalty decisions emanates from the Oval Office.

From Salon

What remains puzzling is Donald Trump's impatience – the same impatience he's displayed in attempting to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine.

From BBC

If Levon has a tick, it’s his impatience to get on with the murdering.

From Los Angeles Times

Sitting in the audience during the first act rehearsal, Holmes’ Lloyd grudgingly offers words of encouragement while seething with impatience.

From Los Angeles Times

Regents Sures and Rich Leib, however, expressed impatience with the discipline process.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• anger
• annoyance
• anxiety
• eagerness
• edginess
• excitement
• nervousness
• restlessness
• uneasiness