\For"ward*ness\, n.
The quality of being forward; cheerful readiness; promtness;
as, the forwardness of Christians in propagating the gospel.
2. An advanced stage of progress or of preparation;
   advancement; as, his measures were in great forwardness.
   --Robertson.
3. Eagerness; ardor; as, it is difficult to restrain the
   forwardness of youth.
3. Boldness; confidence; assurance; want of due reserve or
   modesty.
         In France it is usual to bring children into
         company, and cherish in them, from their infancy, a
         kind of forwardness and assurance.    --Addison.
5. A state of advance beyond the usual degree; prematureness;
   precocity; as, the forwardnessof spring or of corn; the
   forwardness of a pupil.
         He had such a dexterous proclivity, as his teachers
         were fain to restrain his forwardness. --Sir H.
                                               Wotton.
Syn: Promptness; promptitude; eagerness; ardor; zeal;
     assurance; confidence; boldness; impudence; presumption.