split-second

1 of 2

adjective

split-sec·​ond ˈsplit-ˈse-kənd How to pronounce split-second (audio)
1
: occurring in a split second
a split-second decision
2
: extremely precise
split-second timing

split second

2 of 2

noun

: a fractional part of a second : flash

Examples of split-second in a Sentence

Adjective a day trader who is used to making split-second decisions Noun In a split second, it was all over. a devastating accident can cause everything in your life to change in a split second
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Adjective
In the film, the news team needs to make split-second decisions that involve not just life or death issues but life or death issues that literally no one ever had to consider putting on live television before the events of September 5. Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 13 Dec. 2024 The pediatric dentist must use his or her unique expertise to make split-second decisions when a six-year-old child is squirming in the chair. Chris Westfall, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024
Noun
The focus is fast enough to snap from close to distant subjects in a split second in most instances. PCMAG, 11 Dec. 2024 Germany showed the danger of giving opponents even a split second of unmarked possession just beyond the box and exploited their defensive indecision. Jeff Rueter, The Athletic, 28 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for split-second 

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1944, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1912, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of split-second was in 1912

Dictionary Entries Near split-second

split screen

split-second

split second

Cite this Entry

“Split-second.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/split-second. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

split second

1 of 2 noun
: a small fraction of a second : flash

split-second

2 of 2 adjective
1
: occurring in a split second
a split-second decision
2
: extremely precise
split-second timing
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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