Instant

ˈɪnstənt

Meaning & Definition

noun

a very short period of time.

He made the decision in an instant.

the precise moment when something happens.

At that instant, everything changed.

adjective

happening very quickly or immediately.

The instant success of the new product surprised everyone.

occurring at this moment; immediate.

For instant relief, apply the cream directly to the affected area.

From Latin 'instans', present participle of 'instare' meaning 'to stand in or upon'.

in an instant

very quickly; without delay.

instant gratification

the desire to experience pleasure or fulfillment without delay or deferment.

instant noodle

a type of noodle that is precooked and dehydrated, requiring only boiling water to prepare.

instantly

without any delay; immediately.

instantaneous

occurring or done in an instant or instantly.

Instant karma

The thought of instant karma made him rethink his actions.

Instant message

We communicated via instant message instead of texting.