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

These stocks raged for much of the year, as breakneck spending in the burgeoning sector powered the overall economy.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The mixed performance comes as PDD has been facing some headwinds after years of breakneck growth.

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The entire ocean surges forward at breakneck speed.

Read more on Literature

Their working method was mostly just conversation, but conversation conducted at a breakneck pace, and at high volume.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

China has been expanding its navy at breakneck speed under Xi, putting pressure on the United States and its allies to keep up.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• headlong 
• rapid