pacing

[pey-sing]

noun

1. the act or result of setting the rate of movement or progress, as of a story, movie, lesson, etc..

   The pacing of a video presentation must be appropriate; too slow is just as common (and as bad) as too fast.

2. the act of walking back and forth, as to expend nervous energy.

   For several minutes after she entered, he continued his restless pacing to and fro as if unaware of her presence.

3. the act of walking with slow, regular steps.

   Above my head, at intervals, I heard the pacing of the sentry upon the roof.

4. the act or process of measuring something by counting the steps taken to walk its length at a normal stride.

   Though surveyors find it a quick and easy way to measure distance in the field, accurate pacing can only be accomplished by practice.

adjective

1. walking back and forth, as to expend nervous energy.

   I tried to focus my attention on anything but the rapidly pacing detective, who was deep in thought.

2. walking with slow, regular steps.

   Seeing the pacing security guard in front of the sliding doors, she looked around quickly for another way out.

3. (of a horse or other animal) moving in such a way that the feet on the same side are lifted and put down together.

   A pacing horse will swing its head from side to side as opposed to up and down.

Word History and Origins

Origin of pacing¹

First recorded in 1450–1500; pac(e) ¹ ( def. ) + -ing ¹ ( def. ) for the noun senses; pac(e) ¹ ( def. ) + -ing ² ( def. ) for the adjective senses

Example Sentences

With its slow pacing, shaky handheld cameras, dishwater cinematography and unnervingly extreme closeups, it feels more like an intense indie drama than a whimsical tale of a robber with a peculiar M.O.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

“It’s a collective thing. I can’t taper that for individuals, but I can certainly be conscious of pacing and understanding. I don’t think I’m aloof enough to not have that in my mind.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Critics have broadly agreed the best picture contender broadly earns its 2hr 50min length thanks to some gripping storytelling and rapid pacing.

Read more on BBC

"I also remember my father that day, pacing around impatiently. 'For Christ's sake Mary,' he'd say. 'Enough is enough, turn it off.'"

Read more on BBC

Someone liked the show — or at least watched it, mostly so they could complain about its pacing.

Read more on Los Angeles Times