The word "momentary" is spelled as /ˌmoʊmənˈtɛri/ using the International Phonetic Alphabet. The first syllable is pronounced with a long "o" sound followed by "mən", which is a schwa sound. The second part of this word is pronounced as "tɛri" with a soft "t" sound in the middle and the final syllable being pronounced with an "ee" sound. The word means something that lasts for a very short time, such as a moment. It is also used to describe something that is brief or of short duration.
Momentary is an adjective that describes something that lasts for only an instant or a very short period of time. It pertains to events, actions, or sensations that occur and disappear quickly, leaving little or no lasting impression. It implies a fleeting or transitory nature, suggesting that the occurrence is not to be expected to continue or be sustained.
Derived from the noun "moment," which refers to a precise point in time, momentary emphasizes the brevity and ephemerality of the subject at hand. It signifies that the duration is extremely brief, often too short to measure accurately, and typically signifies an occurrence that is almost imperceptible due to its rapidity. It is commonly used to describe emotions, sensations, or sensations that are experienced or felt instantaneously, such as a momentary sense of relief or a momentary flash of inspiration.
In a broader context, momentary can also refer to inanimate objects or things that exist for a very brief duration. For instance, a momentary pause in a speech refers to a very short break or interruption that momentarily halts the flow of information. Similarly, a momentary lapse in concentration indicates a brief period of distraction or loss of focus, quickly recovered shortly thereafter. Overall, the term momentary highlights the transient nature of an occurrence, signaling its brevity and lack of endurance.
Done in an instant; lasting an extremely short time.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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The word momentary is derived from the Latin word momentarius, which is derived from the word momentum. The Latin term momentarius means of a moment or for an instant. Momentum is itself a Latin word meaning movement or motion.