fast times
A period of time characterized by quickly-paced activity, especially involving extravagant or risky conduct, sexual behavior, or other exciting events.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“They lived through fast times in the city.”
“She enjoys the fast times of a busy summer in the city.”
“Do you miss the fast times you had before you moved away?”
“After moving to the capital, he spent his youth chasing fast times and wild parties.”
“The retired rock star often talks about the fast times of his youth when he traveled the world and spent money without thinking.”
“Many young professionals are drawn to the fast times of the fashion industry, even if the lifestyle is exhausting and risky.”
“The memoirs recount a decade of fast times, defined by reckless ambition and the constant pursuit of fleeting pleasures.”
first recorded 20th c.
The phrase entered the common lexicon following the publication of the novel *Fast Times at Ridgemont High* in 1981 and the subsequent release of the film of the same name in 1982. While the components of the expression were existing English terms, their specific pairing was popularized by these titles.
- 01
come thick and fast
To arrive rapidly in large groups.
- 02
fast and furious
Rapid and energetic.
- 03
fast asleep
Sleeping, in a deep sleep.
- 04
fast sheet
A hotel or similar establishment catering to prostitutes.
- 05
get with the times
To become aware of modern trends, words or ideas.
- 06
go nowhere fast
To fail to make any progress.
- 07
good times
Referring to a specific period of time, whether the speaker’s present circumstances or a past era recalled with nostalgia, as agreeable or enjoyable, occasionally with an ironic connotation.
- 08
hold fast
To stubbornly resist assault, pressure or opposition, either physically or mentally.
Last updated August 10, 2026