impromptu

[im-promp-too, -tyoo]

adjective

1. made or done without previous preparation.

   an impromptu address to the unexpected crowds.

2. suddenly or hastily prepared, made, etc..

   an impromptu dinner.

3. improvised; having the character of an improvisation.

adverb

1. without preparation.

   verses written impromptu.

noun

1. something impromptu; an impromptu speech, musical composition, performance, etc.

2. a character piece for piano common in the 19th century and having, despite its title, a clear-cut form.

impromptu

/ ɪmˈprɒmptjuː /

adjective

1. unrehearsed; spontaneous; extempore

2. produced or done without care or planning; improvised

adverb

1. in a spontaneous or improvised way

   he spoke impromptu

noun

1. something that is impromptu

2. a short piece of instrumental music, sometimes improvisatory in character

Word History and Origins

Origin of impromptu¹

First recorded in 1660–70; from French, from Latin in promptū “in readiness”; in, prompt

Word History and Origins

Origin of impromptu¹

C17: from French, from Latin in promptū in readiness, from promptus (adj) ready, _prompt

Synonym Study

See extemporaneous.

Example Sentences

During the Rams’ media day in June, the players made an impromptu request to recreate it.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The Miss Universe Organization has denied Harfouch's claims, stating that "no impromptu jury has been created".

Read more on Barron's

Initially, fans started showing up on Nov. 17, the day the television special aired, for impromptu celebrations of their own.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Mr Harfouch did not elaborate on how this "impromptu jury" would function, or how it would override the official jury's decision.

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The cowlike lowing sounds came at intervals, and an impromptu waiting room sprang up in the parlor.

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Related Words

• offhand 
• spontaneous 
• unscripted