double-time
UK[ˈdʌb(ə)l taɪm]US[ˈdʌb(ə)l taɪm]
n
A marching cadence of 180 steps per minute, twice the speed of the normal quick time.
n
A rate of pay that is twice the normal rate, especially for overtime work.
v
To march or move at double-time.
v
To cause (troops) to march at double-time.
Morpheme Breakdown
double
time
double
twofold
time
period
Etymology
The term 'double-time' is a transparent English compound, directly combining the concept of doubling with a measured period. The word 'double' entered English via Old French from the Latin duplus, meaning "twofold," which itself derives from the Proto-Indo-European root dwo-, meaning "two." 'Time' originates from the Old English tīma, related to the concept of a fitting or allotted period, and shares a Proto-Germanic ancestry with words for "stretch" or "extend." The military sense of a doubled marching pace emerged in the 19th century, logically extending to describe any activity performed at twice the normal speed. The financial sense, denoting double the standard rate of pay, follows the same literal arithmetic logic, applying the compound to the measurement of work periods.
Analysis
Structure: double (twofold) + time (period)
- double: From Latin duplus (twofold, double). In this compound, it functions as an intensifier meaning "twice the normal amount or rate."
- time: From Old English tīma (a period, season). In this compound, it denotes a measured period or rate, such as a pace or a rate of pay.
Examples
The sergeant ordered the platoon to move at double-time across the open field.
Any work performed on a federal holiday will be paid at double-time.
We'll have to double-time it if we want to finish the project before the deadline.