warp speed

American  

noun

1. an extremely rapid rate of speed.

   rumors traveling at warp speed.

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Usage

What does warp speed mean? Warp speed is an extremely fast speed. In science fiction stories, especially in the Star Trek universe, warp speed refers to a hypothetical speed faster than the speed of light that can be achieved by spaceships like the USS Enterprise. This use became popular enough to enter the language as a general term for a really, really fast speed. It’s typically used in exaggerations about how fast something is moving or how fast an action is performed. Example: My kids usually drag their feet when I ask them to do their chores, but they start working at warp speed if I promise them pizza.

Etymology

Origin of warp speed

Alluding to the use in science fiction of spatial or temporal warps to travel interstellar distances

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

warp speed

Although the most important number is that 10% total match, the warp speed matching rates are attractive, said Chris West, a managing director at human-resources consulting firm WTW.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 19, 2026

A decade later, Starlink is now generating enough money to bankroll a company that burns through it at warp speed.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 22, 2026

Like the film itself, Van Der Beek darts between personalities at warp speed.

From Salon ● Feb. 15, 2026

To show his versatility, he became known for his program’s warp speed, no-huddle offense through the years.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 3, 2025

The guidance counselor is late today, so I sit invisible in the red plastic chair while the secretary brings a PTA volunteer up to warp speed on the Petrakis thing.

From "Speak" by Laurie Halse Anderson