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
Bogaerts made a throw to second base that probably should have gone to first and was just a split-second late regardless. Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 Apr. 2025 This is why seasoned investors, surgeons and athletes can make split-second decisions that prove correct. Ayesha Masood, Forbes.com, 3 Apr. 2025
Noun
In a split second, while traveling at incredible speed, Wilson was sent flying into the racing rail, eventually coming to a stop in a heap on the track. Ben Church, CNN Money, 31 Mar. 2025 That split second of hesitation by Georgiev was enough to give Koepke time to get in on the forecheck and knock it free from Desharnais. Steve Conroy, Boston Herald, 23 Mar. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Split-second.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/split-second. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025.

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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