timing

noun

tim·​ing ˈtī-miŋ 

1

a

: placement or occurrence in time

the timing of the sale couldn't have been better

b

: the ability to select the precise moment for doing something for optimum effect

a boxer with impeccable timing

2

: observation and recording (as by a stopwatch) of the elapsed time of an act, action, or process

Examples of timing in a Sentence

The timing of the sale could not have been better.

Her timing was a little off and she missed the shot.

an athlete with impeccable timing

Recent Examples on the Web

How Rod knew Morgan was at her home, along with the coincidental timing of his arrival after her attack, raised questions with investigators who spoke to Rod at the scene. —Michael Loftus, CBS News, 13 Dec. 2024

The offensive plays were strong, but the timing on the pinches gave the Ducks life. —Omar White, The Athletic, 13 Dec. 2024

The timing of Lawson's return to Front Row Motorsports aligns perfectly with the team's expansion plans. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 13 Dec. 2024

Tissue match and timing are critical as is communicating consent to one’s family. —Kathy A. McDonald, Variety, 12 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1647, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing timing

• timing belt
• timing chain

Kids Definition

timing

noun

tim·​ing

ˈtī-miŋ

1

: selection for best effect of the exact moment for beginning or doing something

2

: observation and recording (as by a stopwatch) of the time taken by something