instantaneous

[in-stuhn-tey-nee-uhs]

adjective

1. occurring, done, or completed in an instant.

   an instantaneous response.

   Synonyms: abrupt, sudden, immediate

2. existing at or pertaining to a particular instant.

   the instantaneous position of the rocket.

instantaneous

/ ˌɪnstənˈteɪnɪəs, ɪnˌstæntəˈniːɪtɪ /

adjective

1. occurring with almost no delay; immediate

2. happening or completed within a moment

   instantaneous death

3. maths

   1. occurring at or associated with a particular instant

   2. equal to the limit of the average value of a given variable as the time interval over which the variable is considered approaches zero

      instantaneous velocity

Other Word Forms

• instantaneity noun
• instantaneousness noun
• instantaneously adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of instantaneous¹

From the Medieval Latin word instantāneus, dating back to 1645–55. See instant, -an, -eous

Example Sentences

“When Mona asked … for just about everybody in the Presbyterian, it was an instantaneous recognition of how much sense this made,” said Wendy Tajima, executive presbyter, or spiritual leader, of the church.

From Los Angeles Times

The quick and dirty alternative would be to “point the thing down and fire the thruster, which would basically produce an instantaneous reentry.”

From Los Angeles Times

Yvonne stresses that kaftrio is not a miracle drug and does not work for everybody, but for her, the effect was instantaneous.

From BBC

In California, this process has quickened in recent years, with the process now being nearly “instantaneous,” Bonilla said.

From Los Angeles Times

Coach Jim Harbaugh’s numerous ties to San Diego and instantaneous winning appeared to smooth out a potential reunion with the city.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• rapid 
• spontaneous 
• transitory