Meaning & Definition of word "Passing"

Passing

/ˈpæs.ɪŋ/

noun:

  • 1. the act of going by something or someone, often used in the context of traffic or time.
    • Example: The passing of the train caused a brief interruption to our conversation.
  • 2. the act of dying; death.
    • Example: They mourned the passing of their beloved pet.
  • 3. the attainment of a passing grade or score in a test or examination.
    • Example: She felt relieved after receiving her results and achieving a passing mark.

verb:

  • 1. to go by or move past something.
    • Example: He was passing the park when he saw his friend.
  • 2. to transfer or hand over something.
    • Example: She was passing the salt during dinner.

adjective:

  • 1. occurring for a short time or momentary.
    • Example: The storm was merely passing, and the sun would shine again soon.
  • 2. temporary or transitory in nature.
    • Example: He made a passing reference to the topic during his speech.

Etymology

Middle English, from the verb 'passen,' influenced by the Old French 'passer.'

Common Phrases and Expressions

passing fancy:

A temporary or fleeting interest.

passing grade:

A score that is sufficient to pass a course or exam.

passing thought:

A quick or fleeting idea that may not be deeply considered.

passing remark:

A brief comment that is not meant to be taken seriously.

Related Words

pass:

To move beyond something or allow to go by.

passed:

Having gone past or moved beyond.

passing-off:

An act of misrepresentation or fraud.

Slang Meanings of passing

Meaning: Passing the vibe check

Example Sentence: He was cool enough that he kept passing the vibe check.

Meaning: Passing time

Example Sentence: We were just passing time until the concert started.