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
The prosecutor said it’s understood that law enforcement officers sometimes make mistakes in split-second decisions. Alex Riggins, The Mercury News, 13 Feb. 2025 Gambling is fun for the split-second rush, but getting in over your head is a serious problem that scores of Americans deal with on a daily basis. Ryan Gaydos, Fox News, 5 Feb. 2025
Noun
There comes a time when that certainty of touch and movement as a batsman is a split second out. Tim Ellis, Forbes, 22 Dec. 2024 For a commander on the battlefield, a split second of decision advantage can determine the difference between victory and defeat. Fox News Staff, Fox News, 8 Feb. 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 Entries

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Cite this Entry

“Split-second.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/split-second. Accessed 27 Feb. 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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