The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Prompt \Prompt\ (pr[o^]mt; 215), a. [Compar. Prompter; superl.
Promptest.] [F. prompt, L. promptus, properly, brought
forth (to light or view), hence, visible, evident, at hand,
ready, quick, -- p. p. of promere to take or bring forth; pro
forth + emere to take. See Redeem. ]
[1913 Webster]
1. Ready and quick to act as occasion demands; meeting
requirements readily; not slow, dilatory, or hesitating in
decision or action; responding on the instant; immediate;
as, prompt in obedience or compliance; -- said of persons.
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Very discerning and prompt in giving orders.
--Clarendon.
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Tell him I am prompt
To lay my crown at's feet. --Shak.
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And you, perhaps, too prompt in your replies.
--Dryden.
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2. Done or rendered quickly, readily, or immediately; given
without delay or hesitation; -- said of conduct; as,
prompt assistance.
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When Washington heard the voice of his country in
distress,
his obedience was prompt. --Ames.
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3. Easy; unobstructed. [Obs.]
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The reception of the light into the body of the
building was very prompt. --Sir H.
Wotton.
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Syn: Ready; expeditious; quick; agile; alert; brisk; nimble.
Usage: Prompt, Ready, Expeditious. One who is ready is
prepared to act at the moment. One who is prompt acts
at the moment. One who is expeditious carries through
an undertaking with constant promptness.
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