impromptu

American  

[im-promp-too, -tyoo] / ɪmˈprɒmp tu, -tyu /

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.

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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 British  

/ ɪmˈprɒmptjuː /

adjective

1. unrehearsed; spontaneous; extempore

2. produced or done without care or planning; improvised

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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

Related Words

See extemporaneous.

Etymology

Origin of impromptu

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

Example Sentences

One protester climbed onto an impromptu stage and bravely proclaimed: "I am a Yoon voter... But he really crossed the line. I regret voting for him."

From BBC

Stella’s restless energy in wanting to fix things spurs her to arrange an impromptu trip for them to Amsterdam.

From Los Angeles Times

The impromptu reunion felt like a full-circle moment, said Frey, who moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting about two years ago.

From Los Angeles Times

I love an impromptu party, especially in the dead of winter and when it involves a luxurious, steamy bowl of soup.

From The Wall Street Journal

The Eaton and Palisades fire diaspora has played out in a sunburst pattern of impromptu moves that likely will never be traced in full detail.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• offhand
• spontaneous
• unscripted