Fast"ness, n. [AS. faestnes, fr. faest fast. See Fast, a.]

1.

The state of being fast and firm; firmness; fixedness; security; faithfulness.

All . . . places of fastness [are] laid open. Sir J. Davies.

2.

A fast place; a stronghold; a fortress or fort; a secure retreat; a castle; as, the enemy retired to their fastnesses in the mountains.

3.

Conciseness of style.

[Obs.]

Ascham.

4.

The state of being fast or swift.

 

© Webster 1913.