Just like we use shorthand to abbreviate workout design, there are numerous keywords that are very helpful in speed training. As is the case with many topics, we could create a fairly exhaustive list. However, once we become familiar with metabolic parameters and proficient with workout design, the main thing we want to use words for is to stimulate a vision of what we're trying to accomplish.
This is the magic of a cue. And the best cues are only 1 word. Depending on what you're doing...you want to think of the word that works best for you in executing the objective. This is a well known aspect of sports psychology. The right word is a powerful driver. And thinking of more than one thing at a time is counterproductive.
Interestingly though, you can look at several synomyms and one will be better for one person, another for another. Let's look at a number of conditions or situations in speed, and then a few keywords that have been proven to ellicit the appropriate response in the athlete.
STARTS: Big, strong, push, launch
ACCELERATION: Drive, power, build, rise gradually
UPRIGHT RUNNING: Project, cycle, switch
FOOT STRIKE: Attack, claw, snap
PUSH OFF: Pop, release, paw
RECOVERY: Spring, pull through, set up
ARMS: Pump, crank, stroke
HEAD: Level, eyes on the horizon, jaw relaxed
MAINTENANCE: Smooth, rhythmic, patient
ATTITUDE: Proud, controlled aggression, confident
In a coaching situation, which is when someone like me (or even you doing this for yourself), the secret is to identify what element needs to be worked on. Then try one or several of those cues until it "clicks." This can initially be a very cognitive practice...but ultimately great technique will become subconscious or be on autopilot.