at a word

1. In immediate response, at an instant. For example, At a word from the captain they lined up in order. [c. 1300]

Example Sentences

“Ranchers and farmers are pretty much the same everywhere,” said Whitney, her calloused hands busy at a word search puzzle as the auctioneer chanted.

From Seattle Times

So it seems that if staring at a word or repeating a word makes it meaningless, you can imagine that going to a door, for example, to keep checking whether it's locked or unlocked is going to at some point also become a meaningless activity.

From Salon

Tracking along with his finger, the boy kept a steady pace, but paused at a word on the second line.

From Seattle Times

“Where’s your secret? Play fair, Teddy, or I’ll never believe you again,” she said, trying to extinguish the brilliant hopes that blazed up at a word of encouragement.

From Literature

I know its quirks and its features, I can troubleshoot it, and the mere act of staring at a Word document tells my brain: OK, time to get to work.

From Slate