Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Forwardness \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.

Source : WordNet®

forwardness
     n : offensive assertiveness [syn: {bumptiousness}, {cockiness},
         {pushiness}]