split-second

1 of 2

adjective

split-sec·​ond ˈsplit-ˈse-kənd How to pronounce split-second (audio)
1
: occurring in a split second
a split-second decision
2
: extremely precise
split-second timing

split second

2 of 2

noun

: a fractional part of a second : flash

Examples of split-second in a Sentence

Adjective a day trader who is used to making split-second decisions Noun In a split second, it was all over. a devastating accident can cause everything in your life to change in a split second
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
This series photographs these birds in action, most of them at full speed, capturing split-second moments that were once impossible to record. Cecilia Rodriguez, Forbes, 2 Mar. 2025 But Williams dumped the ball off to Brandon Clarke under the rim, and Robinson, recovering once again, arrived a split-second late. Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 1 Mar. 2025
Noun
The Supreme Court weighed Monday whether courts should examine everything that happened during the traffic stop or just the split seconds when the officer feared for his safety in deciding whether the officer can be tried for unreasonable force. Ella Lee, The Hill, 22 Jan. 2025 Thomas Partey forced a turnover and with one touch stole the ball and diverted it for Odegaard, who needed only a split second to steer the ball on for Trossard in space. Amy Lawrence, The Athletic, 15 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for split-second

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1944, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1912, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of split-second was in 1912

Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Split-second.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/split-second. Accessed 11 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

split second

1 of 2 noun
: a small fraction of a second : flash

split-second

2 of 2 adjective
1
: occurring in a split second
a split-second decision
2
: extremely precise
split-second timing
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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