instantaneous

American  

[in-stuhn-tey-nee-uhs] / ˌɪn stənˈteɪ ni əs /

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.

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instantaneous British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

• instantaneity noun
• instantaneously adverb
• instantaneousness noun

Etymology

Origin of instantaneous

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

Example Sentences

This instantaneous sharing of sensory intelligence could help the fish locate food, friends and foes.

From Science Daily

“It was an instantaneous, illuminating thing that I felt like it was so danceable,” said Peck, now the resident choreographer and artistic adviser at New York City Ballet.

From New York Times

Its follow-up, “Lemonade,” in 2016, was teased by a Super Bowl appearance but still made an instantaneous splash.

From New York Times

Consequently, PNe provide an almost instantaneous snapshot of stellar death throes.

From Science Daily

In an excerpt, writing of his early years, he said: “My affection for the newsroom at the Anchorage Daily News was instantaneous and my devotion never faltered.”

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• rapid
• spontaneous
• transitory