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

Fearing the vessel would drift back toward her son, Thomas' mother made a split-second decision to accelerate away. — Jordan Greene, PEOPLE, 17 June 2026 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

Noun

For a split second, the celebration froze. — Antonio Ferme, Variety, 14 June 2026 In a split second, Lou (Malcolm May) shoves the would-be shooter, whose gun accidentally goes off, but the bullets go in a different direction. — Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 12 June 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

But those plans were derailed on Thursday when Egyptian authorities blocked the ship, the Scarlet Lady, from entering its waters at the last minute, according to Atlantis Events, days after the vessel was refused entry to Turkey.

— Billy Stockwell, CNN Money, 11 July 2026
Veteran forward Emma Cannon played 12 minutes and scored nine points as a key post presence late when Cardoso was in foul trouble.

— Marisa Ingemi, Los Angeles Times, 11 July 2026

Definition of minute

Adjective

There was no immediate word of damage in Qatar, while Jordanian government spokesman Mohammad al-Momani said all incoming fire from Iran had been intercepted.

— Jon Gambrell, Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2026
There was no immediate response to the Iranian accusations from the Pentagon.

— Courtney Kube, NBC news, 9 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

The double bass became both the heartbeat and the guide of jazz, supporting the ensemble while adding its own rhythmic and melodic voice.

— Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 8 July 2026
While Moreno was asleep, nurses had been coming into the room to check on the baby’s heartbeat.

— Georgia Slater, PEOPLE, 7 July 2026

Definition of heartbeat

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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 12 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of split-second

adjective

noun

Example Sentences

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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