Meaning & Definition
adverb
In a quick or fast manner.
The population of the city has been growing rapidly over the last decade.
At a high speed.
The athlete moved rapidly down the track, leaving all competitors behind.
Happening within a short period of time.
Technology is evolving rapidly, changing how we live and work.
Characterized by great quickness.
The news of the event spread rapidly across social media.
Etymology
From Latin 'rapidus', meaning 'seizing or taking away quickly.'
Common Phrases and Expressions
rapidly acquiring:
gaining something quickly
rapidly changing:
changing at a fast pace
rapidly deteriorating:
declining quickly
Slang Meanings
On the double
Get it done on the double!
In a flash
He completed the work in a flash.