split-second 1 of 2

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

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
Anyone familiar with racing — or shows like Drive to Survive, where stories pivot on split-second twists of fate — knows how quickly fortunes can crash and burn. Sarah Hepola, Dallas Morning News, 31 Jan. 2026 Alcaraz raised his arms to the skies and as the crowd erupted, the long flight of Zverev’s shot giving them an extra split-second to raise their voices to a crescendo. Charlie Eccleshare, New York Times, 30 Jan. 2026
Noun
About three seconds after the person has fallen to the ground, a second police vehicle enters the frame at high speed and drives over the person, a split second after they can be seen moving on the ground. Ishani Desai, Sacbee.com, 23 Jan. 2026 And so, Haru is in a world of her own when the real one comes crashing in (and, in the space of her sky-high fantasy, crashing down), taking both Luis and her passion for dancing from her in a split second. Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 22 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for split-second
Recent Examples of Synonyms for split-second
Adjective
  • Not every match is instantaneous, but countless adopters describe that immediate spark that turns into a lifelong bond.
    Cathy M. Rosenthal, San Antonio Express-News, 10 Feb. 2026
  • The partnership delivered near instantaneous results.
    Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 10 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Just a few minutes ago, Juan Pablo Guanipa was kidnapped in the Los Chorros urbanization in Caracas.
    Zach LaChance, The Washington Examiner, 9 Feb. 2026
  • The 30-second Super Bowl version manages to capture most of the ridiculousness of the lengthier, two-and-a-half-minute version directed by Spike Jonze, which feels as silly and committed as any of your favorite Stiller comedy moments.
    Omar L. Gallaga, Los Angeles Times, 9 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Horizontal and diagonal cracks require immediate attention from a structural engineer.
    Jessica Elliott, Dallas Morning News, 10 Feb. 2026
  • Feeling lightheaded or passing out can signal a very serious pulmonary embolism and requires immediate attention.
    Helen Carefoot, Flow Space, 10 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The second is a resolution declaring a food apartheid in the City of Milwaukee – this will mirror a similar declaration by Milwaukee County.
    Everett Eaton, jsonline.com, 10 Feb. 2026
  • Duren then hit Diabate in the face with his open right hand, starting a confrontation that lasted more than 30 seconds and ultimately ended with a brief police presence on the floor.
    Steve Reed, Los Angeles Times, 10 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Easily made flourless, and enhanced by the addition of instant espresso powder, chocolate cookies are versatile in much the same way sugar cookies are.
    Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 9 Feb. 2026
  • Rubs and scrubs are powerfully restorative and facials using ESPA and 111 Skin products have instant effects.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • And while their steamy, sweaty dalliances are hot and heavy (albeit mostly clothed), most swoonworthy are the smaller moments, like Heathcliff gently cupping his hands to keep the rain out of Cathy’s eyes.
    Brian Truitt, USA Today, 10 Feb. 2026
  • Writing is taking moments in time and recording them.
    Daisy Jones, Vogue, 10 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Music is the heartbeat of the world.
    Ryan Gaydos , Larry Fink, FOXNews.com, 8 Feb. 2026
  • This nutrient helps regulate your heartbeat and supports healthy muscle function.
    Zia Sherrell, Health, 7 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Split-second.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/split-second. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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