impatience

noun

im·​pa·​tience (ˌ)im-ˈpā-shən(t)s How to pronounce impatience (audio)
: the quality or state of being impatient

Examples of impatience in a Sentence

the child's impatience for Christmas morning is engaging
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The dog's expressive gaze and demeanor struck a chord with TikTok users, many of whom have experienced similar moments of impatience. Maria Morava, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 June 2025 The combination of Neptune’s hazy qualities and Aries’ impatience and fiery passion can cause a clash between your ideals and the reality of what is achievable, leaving you feeling uncertain about which direction to take. Valerie Mesa, People.com, 18 June 2025 Howe has made his impatience for activity clear, but just who will lead negotiations in their absence? Chris Waugh, New York Times, 6 June 2025 Obviously, this means these game modes are far less technical and have almost nothing to do with your ability to actually play the base game well and are more about your ability to adapt to the new control scheme and use your opponent’s impatience against them. David Jagneaux, Forbes.com, 27 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for impatience

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of impatience was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Impatience.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/impatience. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

impatience

noun
im·​pa·​tience (ˈ)im-ˈpā-shən(t)s How to pronounce impatience (audio)
1
: lack of patience
2
: restless or eager desire

More from Merriam-Webster on impatience

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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