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
That split-second decision is exactly what attackers are counting on. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 7 Jan. 2026 The demo goes far beyond a visual stunt, showing the robot managing real impacts, balance shifts, and split-second decisions in an uncontrolled setting. Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 2 Jan. 2026
Noun
Feig seems lost in pleasantly tipsy thought for a split second. David Fear, Rolling Stone, 29 Dec. 2025 The girl’s features rearrange and for a split second her whole face looks mangled. Literary Hub, 10 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for split-second
Recent Examples of Synonyms for split-second
Adjective
  • The nearly instantaneous process that transpires somewhere in the technological ether when a new request for information comes in has real-world reverberations.
    Sarah Henry, AZCentral.com, 19 Jan. 2026
  • Once handed the reins in 1983, Kosar’s impact was instantaneous.
    Devon Henderson, New York Times, 14 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • If dealing with persistent scum, create a paste using vinegar and baking soda, apply it, and leave it for 20 minutes before wiping it clean.
    Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Jan. 2026
  • Minnesota’s zone defense stymied the Badgers at the end of the half, with nine straight stops including five turnovers and zero points over the final five minutes for a 35-28 lead.
    Andy Greder, Twin Cities, 14 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Netflix’s fourth-quarter earnings call was a bounty of promises for new kinds of content on the streaming giant’s platform, even without immediate prospects of any new shows from its $83 billion bid for Warner Bros.
    David Bloom, Forbes.com, 21 Jan. 2026
  • Temperatures may dip below 10° outside of the beltway and low to mid-teens across the immediate metro.
    Steven Sosna, CBS News, 21 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Los Angeles moved in front with a 25-6 run that started late in the first quarter and carried over to the second.
    CBS News, CBS News, 27 Jan. 2026
  • Getting five points in the final 128 seconds from a freshman backup who was thrust into a starting role, Aliso Niguel maintained a chokehold on the league title race with a 61-60 victory at Beckman on Monday.
    Martin Henderson, Oc Register, 27 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • For years, Western beauty has treated skincare like a sprint—fast results, aggressive actives, instant correction.
    Corein Carter, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026
  • Style it as part of a gallery display, above an accent cabinet, or in a home office for an instant refresh.
    Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • That moment showed his cheeky side — his knack for making her laugh — and their unique bond.
    Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 27 Jan. 2026
  • Pretti was being held on the ground when an officer appeared to remove a gun from Pretti's waistband just moments before another agent fired the first shot.
    Joe Walsh, CBS News, 27 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Today, brands need a heartbeat.
    Hilary Milnes, Vogue, 23 Jan. 2026
  • Former players and analysts are quick to compliment Stidham as a pro’s pro, a guy who operates with a slow heartbeat.
    Troy Renck, Denver Post, 22 Jan. 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 27 Jan. 2026.

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