For"ward*ness , n.
The quality of being forward; cheerful readiness; promtness; as, the forwardness of Christians in propagating the gospel.
2. An advanced stage of progress or of preparation; advancement; as, his measures were in great forwardness. Robertson.
3. Eagerness; ardor; as, it
is difficult to restrain the forwardness of youth.
3. Boldness; confidence; assurance;
want of due
reserve or modesty.
In France it is usual to bring children into company, and cherish in them, from
their infancy, a kind of forwardness and assurance.
Addison.
5. A state of advance beyond the usual degree; prematureness; precocity; as, the forwardnessof spring or of
corn; the forwardness of a pupil.
He had such a dexterous proclivity, as his teachers were fain to restrain his forwardness.
Sir H. Wotton. Syn. -- Promptness; promptitude; eagerness; ardor; zeal; assurance; confidence; boldness; impudence; presumption.
Hear it pronounced