American Dictionary of the English Language

Dictionary Search

Prompt


PROMPT, adjective [Latin promptus, from promo.]

1. Ready and quick to act as occasion demands.

Very discerning and prompt in giving orders.

2. Of a ready disposition; acting with cheerful alacrity; as prompt in obedience or compliance.

Tell him

I'm prompt to lay my crown at's feet.

3. Quick; ready; not dilatory; applied to things; as, he manifested a prompt obedience; he yielded prompt assistance.

When Washington heard the voice of his country in distress, his obedience was prompt

4. Quick; hasty; indicating boldness or forwardness.

And you perhaps too prompt in your replies.

5. Ready; present; told down; as prompt payment.

6. Easy; unobstructed.

PROMPT, verb transitive To incite; to move or excite to action or exertion; to instigate. Insults prompt anger or revenge; love prompts desire; benevolence prompts men to devote their time and services to spread the gospel. Ambition prompted Alexander to wish for more worlds to conquer.

1. To assist a speaker when at a loss, by pronouncing the words forgotten or next in order, as to prompt an actor; or to assist a learner, by suggesting something forgotten or not understood.

2. To dictate; to suggest to the mind.

And whisp'ring angels prompt her golden dreams.

3. To remind. [Not used.]