Prompt (prŏmt; 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.]
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.
Very discerning and prompt in giving orders. Clarendon.
Tell him I am prompt
To lay my crown at's feet. Shak.
And you, perhaps, too prompt in your replies. Dryden.
2. Done or rendered quickly, readily, or immediately; given without delay or hesitation; — said of conduct; as, prompt assistance.
When Washington heard the voice of his country in distress,
his obedience was prompt. Ames.
3. Easy; unobstructed.
The reception of the light into the body of the building was very prompt. Sir H. Wotton.
Syn. — Ready; expeditious; quick; agile; alert; brisk; nimble. — 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.