Passing

/ˈpæs.ɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
the act of going by something or someone, often used in the context of traffic or time.
The passing of the train caused a brief interruption to our conversation.
the act of dying; death.
They mourned the passing of their beloved pet.
the attainment of a passing grade or score in a test or examination.
She felt relieved after receiving her results and achieving a passing mark.
verb
to go by or move past something.
He was passing the park when he saw his friend.
to transfer or hand over something.
She was passing the salt during dinner.
adjective
occurring for a short time or momentary.
The storm was merely passing, and the sun would shine again soon.
temporary or transitory in nature.
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

Passing the vibe check
He was cool enough that he kept passing the vibe check.
Passing time
We were just passing time until the concert started.