Headlong
/ˈhɛd.lɔŋ/
Meaning & Definition
adjective
Rushing or hasty; characterized by a lack of caution.
His headlong decision to quit his job surprised everyone.
Moving quickly and dangerously.
The headlong rush of the river posed a threat to the nearby village.
adverb
In a rush; in a hasty and careless manner.
He ran headlong into the busy street without looking.
Without deliberation or consideration.
She dived headlong into the project, eager to make her mark.
Etymology
Middle English, 'hedlong' meaning 'head first'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
headlong rush
A rapid and often reckless movement.
headlong into
Entering into something without preparation or consideration.
headlong dive
A steep or reckless plunge.
Related Words
impetuous
Acting quickly and without thought or care.
precipitate
To cause an event to happen suddenly or unexpectedly.
rush
To move with urgency or haste.
Slang Meanings
Jump in without thinking.
He went headlong into that relationship.
Take a big risk impulsively.
She jumped headlong into investing her savings.