ENGLISH
REFERENCE

paced

v. · adj.
US //ˈpeɪst// UK //pˈeɪst// paced
  1. 1 walked back and forth (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    walked back and forth in a small area, often because you are nervous or waiting.

    walked with slow, regular steps, typically in a confined space due to anxiety, impatience, or deep thought.

    Example

    He paced the hospital waiting room for hours until the doctor finally appeared.

    Example

    The detective paced the length of the office, his rhythmic footsteps echoing as he mentally reconstructed the events of the previous night.
  2. 2 controlled the speed (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Sport

    controlled the speed of an activity so you do not get too tired.

    regulated the rate of progress or speed of an activity, especially to conserve energy over a long duration.

    Example

    She paced herself during the first half of the marathon to save energy for the finish.

    Example

    The lead runner carefully paced the first few laps, ensuring he remained within striking distance of the record without exhausting his reserves too early.
  3. 3 having a certain speed (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    moving or happening at a specific speed, usually used with another word like 'fast' or 'slow'.

    occurring or moving at a specified rate; almost exclusively used in hyphenated compound constructions.

    Example

    The fast-paced movie kept the audience excited from the very first scene.

    Example

    The modern workplace is often a fast-paced environment that requires employees to adapt quickly to shifting priorities and technological changes.

    Usage

    Usually appears in compounds like 'fast-paced' or 'slow-paced'.

Last updated June 20, 2026