SPLIT SECOND Synonyms: 46 Similar and Opposite Words

split-second 1 of 2

adjective

ˈsplit-ˈse-kənd

Definition of split-second

as in instantaneous

done or occurring without any noticeable lapse in time a day trader who is used to making split-second decisions

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

But the second-scariest part of this opening scene comes shortly after the scene has already ended, when a split-second jump scare reveals what Katie looked like after Samara killed her. — Brianna Zigler, Entertainment Weekly, 15 June 2026 The simulation unfolds with military reports, news updates, and social media, challenging the team to make split-second strategic decisions. — Rick Ellis, Forbes.com, 21 June 2026

Noun

For a split second, the celebration froze. — Antonio Ferme, Variety, 14 June 2026 Every baseball game has multiple turning points — times when a swing being a split second sooner or a fraction of an inch higher could change everything. — C. Trent Rosecrans, New York Times, 5 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for split-second

Recent Examples of Synonyms for split-second

Adjective

The rise of Nashville Severe Weather is a modern case study in multiple areas — a shifting tornado alley, a changing climate, the prevalence of social media and the value of instantaneous, hyperlocal information that can save the day or save lives.

— ABC News, ABC News, 7 July 2026
Customer support needs to be quick, easy and engaging, but email and phone support aren’t always instantaneous.

— Anthony Savino, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026

Definition of instantaneous

Noun

And when Cape Verde’s Deroy Duarte evened the score with a right footed shot from a difficult angle at the 59-minute mark, the stunned stadium went silent, minus two small spirited clots of Cape Verde fans in the East end zone seats.

— Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 4 July 2026
Niehues fired home the rebound for the opening goal in the 36th minute.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 4 July 2026

Definition of minute

Adjective

The report's authors said the case highlights the importance of seeking immediate medical evaluation after any direct contact with a bat, even if there is no visible bite or scratch.

— Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 2 July 2026
The tang of the sauce was eye-widening and immediate, crackling with the bright, citrusy charge of tomatillos and serrano chiles.

— Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026

Definition of immediate

Noun

First-round pick Cameron Carr only played in the first half Monday, finishing with five points, one rebound, one assist, one steal, one block and three fouls in 12 minutes and 49 seconds.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 7 July 2026
Within seconds of arriving, we were checked in, and our luggage was tagged and whisked away, giving us ample time to use the bathroom and enjoy a cup of coffee in the lounge.

— Annie Archer, Travel + Leisure, 7 July 2026

Definition of second

Noun

Instead, Alfonzo’s first appearance, the culmination of nine tireless years, was somber , stricken by the grief overshadowing what should’ve been a joyous moment in the Dodgers’ to the Padres.

— Liana Handler Follow, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026
With three Japanese players around him, the decision to immediately engage during such a transitional moment was incorrect.

— Mark Carey, New York Times, 6 July 2026

Definition of moment

Noun

Symptoms can include shortness of breath, fatigue and weakness, and a rapid or irregular heartbeat.

— Jordan Greene, PEOPLE, 30 June 2026
The report listed the probable cause of death as an abnormal heartbeat tied to an underlying condition, systemic sarcoidosis.

— Maveah Griffith, Charlotte Observer, 29 June 2026

Definition of heartbeat

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splits

split-second

split second

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Style

“Split-second.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/split-second. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of split-second

adjective

noun

Example Sentences

Browse Nearby Words

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