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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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
That split-second judgment is often what separates the podium from the wall. Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes.com, 22 May 2026 When Aleppo fell in late November, in part due to that tunnel operation that cut off the regime's supply lines, the rebel groups made a split-second decision to continue the offensive. Emily Feng, NPR, 17 May 2026
Noun
Both have split second-team reps all throughout spring camp, but neither has made enough headway to earn the job outright. Gabriel Duarte, Daily News, 30 Apr. 2026 In a split second, a game meant to be fun and light-hearted can quickly turn into serious repercussions for teenagers playing the game across the country. Marissa Sulek, CBS News, 14 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for split-second
Recent Examples of Synonyms for split-second
Adjective
  • For a wireless mouse, this input delivery rate is near-instantaneous, allowing for some rapid lag-free reaction times.
    George Yang, PC Magazine, 2 June 2026
  • Stranger Things debuted to instantaneous success on the streaming platform in 2016, concluding its five-season run last New Year’s Eve.
    Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 24 May 2026
Noun
  • Vegas pulled Carter Hart with about three minutes to go, officially entering desperation mode, but nothing worked, and Nikolaj Ehlers scored an empty-netter to start the party.
    Ryan Morik, FOXNews.com, 15 June 2026
  • The administration filed a last-minute request to stay the judge's injunction pending their appeal, but it was ultimately rejected.
    Emma Nicholson, CBS News, 15 June 2026
Adjective
  • Whoever wins the nomination will face an immediate campaign finance gap and depend heavily on national GOP resources.
    ABC News, ABC News, 16 June 2026
  • Sadly, Trump’s inability to forgo immediate fulfillment is as pronounced an aspect of his personality as his megalomania.
    Jonathan Chait, The Atlantic, 16 June 2026
Noun
  • Only seconds after taking the pitch, Romelu Lukaku made a run to the front of the net, as his teammate sent in a pass.
    Andrew Greif, NBC news, 16 June 2026
  • This is the least eventful task, since taking a single photo only requires a few seconds.
    Tasha Robinson, Vulture, 16 June 2026
Adjective
  • In today’s world of instant answers at your fingertips, patience is hard.
    Rachel Nuwer, Scientific American, 16 June 2026
  • But Hokit’s remark created instant division.
    Sean Gregory, Time, 15 June 2026
Noun
  • This episode is hilarious, but it’s been so ruthlessly hacked down to giggle moments and ironic smash-cuts that important action and context are missing.
    Tasha Robinson, Vulture, 16 June 2026
  • Parents stood with children draped in Algerian flags while groups of young adults posed for photos and older supporters shared memories of previous World Cups and historic national team moments.
    J.M. Banks June 15, Kansas City Star, 16 June 2026
Noun
  • The archival was truly the heartbeat of the movie and turned out to be such an incredible gift to me.
    Scott Feinberg, HollywoodReporter, 8 Dec. 2025
  • Drygas even provided Urbanavicius a recording of his own heartbeat.
    Fred Topel, Deadline, 7 Dec. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Split-second.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/split-second. Accessed 18 Jun. 2026.

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