English: "Fast", "to fast"

R

Rainbowlight

Senior Member
Spanish
Hello everyone,

I have noticed that words in several languages that are linked to the word "fast" are also related to notions of speed or slowness. Is there an underlying common idea behind ""fast" (or swiftness, speed, rapidness, quickness) and the fact of abstaining from food for a limited period of time?

Thanks for your time and help.
 
    • The first meaning (swiftness, speed, rapidness, quickness) is derived from the original Proto-Germanic meaning of fast = firm/secure, which remains in fasten = make secure.
    The second meaning (abstaining from food) was derived by religion from "to hold fast" (= to stick to the rule, here the rule of abstinence).
     
    Last edited:
    Yendred said:
    The first meaning (swiftness, speed, rapidness, quickness) is derived from the original Proto-Germanic meaning of fast = firm/secure, which remains in fasten = make secure.
    The second meaning (abstaining from food) was derived by religion from "to hold fast" (= to stick to the rule, here the rule of abstinence).
    Click to expand...
    Merci beaucoup! I had never seen that way. But wouldn't it be more logical that "fast" was related to words such as "abstain" or "refrain" or , indeed, expressions like "the rule" or "the law"??
     
    Think of 'to fast' as keeping a promise, you make promise to follow the rule of abstinence. When it comes to religion, it's often about making a promise to whatever gods, God, or Goddess you believe in.
     
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