ENGLISH
REFERENCE

fast times

idiom
Meaning

A period of time characterized by quickly-paced activity, especially involving extravagant or risky conduct, sexual behavior, or other exciting events.


Origin

first recorded 20th c.

Popularized by its usage in the title of the novel Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1981) and the film (1982) of the same name.

Examples
SIMPLE

They lived through fast times in the city.

CONTEXTUAL

After moving to the capital, he spent his youth chasing fast times and wild parties.

COMPLEX

The memoirs recount a decade of fast times, defined by reckless ambition and the constant pursuit of fleeting pleasures.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    come thick and fast

    To arrive rapidly in large groups.

  2. 02

    fast and furious

    Rapid and energetic.

  3. 03

    fast asleep

    Sleeping, in a deep sleep.

  4. 04

    fast sheet

    A hotel or similar establishment catering to prostitutes.

  5. 05

    get with the times

    To become aware of modern trends, words or ideas.

  6. 06

    go nowhere fast

    To fail to make any progress.

  7. 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.

  8. 08

    hold fast

    To stubbornly resist assault, pressure or opposition, either physically or mentally.

© 2026 English Reference