warp speed

noun

1. an extremely rapid rate of speed.

   rumors traveling at warp speed.

Word History and Origins

Origin of warp speed¹

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

Example Sentences

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

From Los Angeles Times

“We are now at warp speed with FEMA,” one city official wrote in an email.

From Salon

“Sept. 10, 2025 was the day we crossed the Rubicon, lost our innocence and realized only one path remains to ensure humanity’s survival. The time for American renewal is at hand, and the tree of liberty shall germinate in warp speed with Charlie Kirk serving as the martyr of our glorious refounding.”

From Los Angeles Times

“Again, it surprises me that you think so highly of Operation Warp Speed when, as an attorney, you attempted to restrict access.”

From Slate

Baby boomers were charging through American society at warp speed, challenging the prevailing morals and mores — and terrifying large numbers of Americans, who felt that the fabric of the nation was unraveling.

From Salon

When To Use

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.