quickenings

Noun

quickening (plural quickenings)

1. An increase of speed.
   • If the following guide lose his distance from the one leading (which can only happen by his own fault), he will correct himself by slightly lengthening or shortening a few steps, in order that there may not be sudden quickenings or slackenings in the march of his platoon.1861, United States. War Dept, U.S. Infantry Tactics, page 124
2. The action of bringing someone or something to life.
3. The first noticeable movements of a foetus during pregnancy, or the period when this occurs.
4. Stimulation, excitement (of a feeling, emotion etc.).
   • It may indeed be said that these days brought on a high quickening of Maisie's direct perceptions, of her sense of freedom to make out things for herself.1897 October 16, Henry James, What Maisie Knew, Chicago, Ill.; New York, N.Y.: Herbert S. Stone & Co., →OCLC