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DictionaryfastFirmly secured
adjective / adverb

fast

Held firmly in place.

The rope holds fast around the sturdy wooden post.

Etymology
fastOld Englishfirm; fixed

Old English fæst meant firm or fixed. This older sense survives in holding fast or being stuck fast, where the emphasis is secure attachment rather than speed.

More examples

  • The boat was stuck fast in the mud.
  • She made the line fast to the dock.
  • The clasp remained fast throughout the climb.

Forms

fast

Similar words

secure
Emphasizes protection from movement or release.
fixed
Held in place without the older adverbial use.