sprint

[sprint]

verb (used without object)

1. to race or move at full speed, especially for a short distance, as in running, rowing, etc.

verb (used with object)

1. to traverse at full speed.

   to sprint a half mile.

noun

1. a short race at full speed.

2. a burst of speed at any point during a long race, as near the finish line.

3. a brief spell of great activity.

4. a short work cycle of fixed length during which specific goals, tasks, etc., need to be completed by a team: often used in agile development.

sprint

/ sprɪnt /

noun

1. athletics a short race run at top speed, such as the 100 metres

2. a fast finishing speed at the end of a longer race, as in running or cycling, etc

3. any quick run

verb

1. to go at top speed, as in running, cycling, etc

Other Word Forms

• sprinter noun
• outsprint verb (used with object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of sprint¹

First recorded in 1560–70; perhaps continuing Old English sprintan (unrecorded; compare gesprintan “to emit”); cognate with Old Norse spretta, Old High German sprinzan “to jump up”

Word History and Origins

Origin of sprint¹

C16: from Scandinavian; related to Old English gesprintan to emit, Old Norse spretta to jump up, Old High German sprinzan to jump up, Swedish sprata to kick

Example Sentences

He said he would judge the latter in part by whether players are sprinting back on defense.

From Los Angeles Times

He is first in the Premier League for duels won, first for possession won in the final third, second for sprints and top five for dribbles.

From BBC

He also began breaking Scottish records for the 100 and 200 yard sprints.

From BBC

The sophomore tight end slowed just before the third-down snap, as if to prepare to run block, then took off sprinting into the flat.

From Los Angeles Times

And while he was once among the fastest players in the majors, he now moves at a purposeful saunter rather than a sprint.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• dart 
• dash 
• rush 
• scamper 
• scoot 
• scurry