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

“Don’t forget to pack some shirts,” Ma orders, pacing like a scrutinizing coach.

Read more on Literature

The hotel messenger was not asleep at all but pacing his room in his nightclothes.

Read more on Literature

He was jumpy and nervous, pacing Beejee’s living room and wringing his hands.

Read more on Literature

The U.S., however, is the pacing superpower and is best positioned for sustained increases in economic growth over time.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Stocks are back in the red Wednesday, with technology once again pacing the declines, as investors examine their holdings in the market’s most important sector heading into the final weeks of the year.

Read more on Barron's