Pronunciation: [ˈɪnstənt] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word 'instant' is determined by its pronounciation. The IPA phonetic transcription for 'instant' is /ˈɪnstənt/. The 'i' is pronounced as /ɪ/ which sounds like 'ih'. 'n' is pronounced as /n/. 's' is pronounced as /s/. 't' is pronounced as /t/. The final 'a' is pronounced as /ə/ which sounds like 'uh'. This transcription helps us to understand the correct pronunciation of the word, and hence its spelling.
Instant is an adjective that refers to something happening or being produced immediately, without any delay or waiting time. It implies a quick or abrupt occurrence that does not require any further actions or preparations. It can also describe the quality of being prompt, instantaneous, or instantaneousness of an action, event, or experience.
In the context of time, it can mean an extremely short period, often referring to a moment, without any noticeable lapse. For instance, an instant coffee implies a quick and easy preparation of coffee without the need for brewing or filtering. Similarly, an instant makeover suggests a rapid transformation in appearance through the use of cosmetics or other means.
Furthermore, instant can describe things that are readily available or accessible, without the need for any additional effort or waiting time. This can pertain to ready-to-use products or services, like instant noodles, instant messaging applications, or instant loans, that can be obtained or utilized without any significant delay.
In addition to time and accessibility aspects, instant can also refer to the characteristics of immediacy, spontaneity, or quick operation. This can relate to the speed or ability to respond promptly, as in the case of an instant response, instant decision, or instant replay, where the action or result occurs without delay.
Overall, instant describes something that occurs or is available immediately, without any significant delay or waiting period, emphasizing quickness, accessibility, spontaneity, or rapidity in various contexts.
• Immediate; present; without delay; urgent; current.
• A point in duration; a moment.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "instant" comes from the Latin term "instantem", which is the accusative singular form of the word "instans". "Instans" is the present participle of the verb "instare", meaning "to stand upon" or "to urge". It is derived from the combination of the prefix "in-" (meaning "in" or "upon") and the verb "stare" (meaning "to stand"). Over time, "instans" evolved into "instant" in French and was later adopted into English.
