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momentary

adjective

/ˈmoʊ mənˌtɛr i/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of momentary

Lastsing for a very short period of time or occurring in an instant.
"He had a momentary lapse in judgment and said something he instantly regretted."

Detailed meaning of momentary

It describes a transient or fleeting nature, emphasizing the brevity or passing nature of an event or experience. When something is described as momentary, it suggests that it occurs within a brief span, often lasting only a moment or a fraction of a moment. This term can be used to depict a sudden or brief occurrence, such as a momentary lapse of concentration or a momentary pause in a conversation. It implies a temporary state or occurrence that is not expected to endure or have a lasting impact. Whether referring to a passing feeling, a quick flash of light, or a brief interruption, the adjective momentary emphasizes the ephemerality and brevity of the subject at hand.

Example sentences containing momentary

1. The flicker of the candle created a momentary glow in the dark room.
2. She experienced a momentary sense of panic when she couldn't find her phone.
3. The thunderstorm brought momentary relief from the sweltering heat.
4. The sudden gust of wind caused a momentary disruption to the outdoor event.
5. The singer captivated the audience with a momentary pause before hitting a high note.
6. The child's momentary distraction allowed the ball to roll away from him.

History and etymology of momentary

The adjective 'momentary' derives its etymology from the Latin word 'momentarius,' which is formed from 'momentum,' meaning 'moment' or 'short span of time.' In essence, 'momentary' captures the essence of something lasting for a very short period of time or occurring in an instant. It emphasizes the fleeting nature of the moment and highlights the brevity of the experience or occurrence in question. This etymology underscores the connection between the word 'momentary' and the concept of a brief and transitory instant, making it a fitting term to describe fleeting or ephemeral events in various contexts.

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Further usage examples of momentary

1. I caught a momentary glimpse of a shooting star before it disappeared from sight.
2. The driver's momentary inattention led to a minor fender bender.
3. The noise from the passing train caused a momentary interruption in our conversation.
4. Her momentary hesitation cost her the opportunity to win the race.
5. The photographer captured a momentary expression of joy on the bride's face.
6. The sun peeked through the clouds in a momentary burst.
7. Her momentary lapse in concentration cost her the game.
8. The joy of their reunion was only momentary.
9. A momentary flicker of doubt crossed his face.
10. The applause for her performance was momentary but heartfelt.
11. The storm brought only a momentary relief from the heat.
12. In a momentary lapse of judgment, he made a costly mistake.
13. Their momentary laughter echoed through the empty hallway.
14. A momentary flash of anger crossed his eyes.
15. The momentary pause in the conversation was awkward.
16. The excitement of the carnival ride was momentary but thrilling.
17. She experienced a momentary sense of déjà vu.
18. The fragrance of the flowers was only momentary.
19. The relief of finding the lost keys was momentary.
20. His momentary distraction caused a minor accident.
21. A momentary gust of wind scattered the leaves.
22. The joy on their faces was momentary as the final whistle blew.
23. A momentary lapse in focus caused the error.
24. The beauty of the sunrise was momentary but breathtaking.
25. In a momentary burst of inspiration, she solved the puzzle.