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
Much like the world of Formula 1 racing, modern healthcare is now about speed, data and split-second decisions—and AI is accelerating this shift. Rahul Saluja, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024 Pitchers have forever been licking their fingers and clutching rosin bags to help with grip; these days, camera technology and data analysis have put a premium on players who can also impart enough spin to make the ball run, ride, cut, carry, sink, tunnel, and bore along a split-second flight path. Zach Schonbrun, The Atlantic, 28 Oct. 2024
Noun
The steering is sure but not overly sharp, the acceleration is solid but not hasty, the brakes stop you in a split second. Josh Max, Forbes, 18 Oct. 2024 The impulse pauses for a split second before spreading down the bundle of His into the left and right branches within each ventricle. Christopher Lee, Verywell Health, 25 Sep. 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 21 Nov. 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!