split-second 1 of 2

adjective

ˈsplit-ˈse-kənd How to pronounce split-second (audio)
Definition of split-secondnext
as in instantaneous
done or occurring without any noticeable lapse in time a day trader who is used to making split-second decisions

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

split second

2 of 2

noun

as in minute
a very small space of time a devastating accident can cause everything in your life to change in a split second

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of split-second
Adjective
According to multiple aviation experts, the split-second loss of the wing – which holds half the jet's fuel – might have helped ensure the structural integrity of the cabin and the safety of passengers. — Peter Charalambous, ABC News, 21 Feb. 2025 The prosecutor said it’s understood that law enforcement officers sometimes make mistakes in split-second decisions. — Alex Riggins, The Mercury News, 13 Feb. 2025
Noun
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 There comes a time when that certainty of touch and movement as a batsman is a split second out. — Tim Ellis, Forbes, 22 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for split-second
Recent Examples of Synonyms for split-second
  1. instantaneous
  2. minute
  3. immediate
  4. second
  5. instant
  6. moment
  7. heartbeat
Adjective
  • Odegaard’s impact in those first few weeks was profound and instantaneous.
    — James McNicholas, The Athletic, 25 Feb. 2025
  • There was zero time wasted on deciding where the puck should go; every pass was instantaneous and laser-accurate and threaded the needle through the slot perfectly.
    — Harman Dayal, The Athletic, 9 Dec. 2024
Definition of instantaneous
Noun
  • American leading scorer Matt Rogers injured his right knee four minutes into the game.
    — Jeff Wallner, Los Angeles Times, 20 Mar. 2025
  • His final triple gave Boston an 89-82 lead with about five minutes left.
    — Jay King, The Athletic, 19 Mar. 2025
Definition of minute
Adjective
  • Lucas had no immediate comment in response to the letter.
    — Mike Hendricks, Kansas City Star, 19 Mar. 2025
  • Turkey’s pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party condemned the detentions and called for the immediate release of all taken into custody.
    — TIME, TIME, 19 Mar. 2025
Definition of immediate
Noun
  • Finished a close second on debut with the winner of that race returning to win an Allowance race and then a distant 4th in the Risen Star Stakes.
    — Jay Ginsbach, Forbes, 15 Mar. 2025
  • Each chef has just 30 seconds to select a single ingredient.
    — Buddha Lo, People.com, 14 Mar. 2025
Definition of second
Adjective
  • In fact, your age often brings instant credibility—people respect experience, confidence, and the ability to deliver results without the fluff.
    — Melissa Houston, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025
  • Beyond instant coverage, many of the best concealers can improve the look of dark circles over time.
    — Jenny Berg, Vogue, 22 Mar. 2025
Definition of instant
Noun
  • Practice patience, and try not to let anxiety or fear take over if your partner remains quiet for a moment.
    — Mark Travers, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025
  • Kendall Jenner has crafted a simple and refined off-duty model style, looking often to The Row for individual pieces and accessories, and finding her rhythm in both high-low moments and more ladylike looks.
    — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 23 Mar. 2025
Definition of moment
Noun
  • According to the Mayo Clinic, arrhythmia is an irregular heartbeat that happens when the heart's electrical signals don’t work properly.
    — Gabrielle Rockson, People.com, 21 Mar. 2025
  • Empathy is the heartbeat of every meaningful relationship.
    — Mark Travers, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025
Definition of heartbeat

Browse Nearby Words

split second
split-second
split seconds
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Cite this Entry

“Split-second.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/split-second. Accessed 28 Mar. 2025.

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