instantly

1 of 2

adverb

in·​stant·​ly ˈin(t)-stənt-lē 

1

: without the least delay : immediately

2

: with importunity : urgently

instantly

2 of 2

conjunction

: as soon as

… he ran across the grass instantly he perceived his mother …

—William Thackeray

Synonyms of instantly

Adverb

• immediately
• promptly
• now
• directly

Conjunction

• when
• immediately
• once

Examples of instantly in a Sentence

Adverb

His voice is instantly recognizable.

They instantly fell in love.

She was killed instantly when her car hit a tree.

Conjunction

we realized there would be problems instantly we saw the final report

Recent Examples on the Web

Adverb

As a ubiquitous fixture across the country, the chain provides a familiar, predictable environment that makes millions of members feel instantly at home. — Jessica Guynn, USA Today, 16 Sep. 2026

Alonso threw his bat and shouted toward his teammates in the visiting dugout upon impact — an image Mets fans can instantly recall from his most famous long ball with New York in 2024’s wild-card series. — Will Sammon, New York Times, 16 Sep. 2026

His partner, six-time DWTS competitor Britt Stewart, speaks to him quietly, offering gentle direction and making tiny posture adjustments that instantly sharpen his moves. — Lily Moayeri, Rolling Stone, 16 Sep. 2026

How to style the ballet sneaker Style the shoes with relaxed denim, track pants or a skirt for an easy way to make an outfit feel instantly current. — Casey Delbasso, ABC News, 16 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Adverb

Middle English, from instant instant entry 2 + -ly -ly entry 2

Conjunction

derivative of instantly entry 1

First Known Use

Adverb

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Conjunction

1793, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

instantly

adverb

in·​stant·​ly

ˈin(t)-stənt-lē

: without delay : immediately

came instantly when I called