1. an increase in speed or activity; acceleration
2. the first movements of a fetus felt by the mother during pregnancy
Usage: medical

1. present participle of quicken; making or becoming faster or more active

Examples

• The quickening of her pulse indicated nervousness.
• She felt the first quickening at twenty weeks of pregnancy.
• The quickening pace of technological change amazed everyone.
• His quickening steps showed his eagerness to arrive.
• The quickening of economic growth boosted investor confidence.
• The doctor explained that quickening usually occurs in the second trimester.
• There was a quickening of interest in renewable energy.