Meaning & Definition of word "Spontaneous"
Spontaneous
/spɒnˈteɪ.ni.əs/
adjective:
- 1. Performed or occurring as a result of a sudden inner impulse or inclination and without premeditation or external stimulus.
- Example: The crowd broke into spontaneous applause after the performance.
- 2. Happening or arising without apparent external cause; involuntary.
- Example: Her laughter was spontaneous and infectious, lighting up the room.
- 3. Developing or occurring naturally and inherently.
- Example: The spontaneous growth of grass in the abandoned lot surprised the neighbors.
- 4. Characterized by a natural and uninhibited quality.
- Example: Their spontaneous road trip was the highlight of their summer vacation.
Etymology
●From Latin 'spontaneus' meaning 'of one's own accord'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
spontaneous combustion:
The occurrence of fire without apparent external ignition.
spontaneous reaction:
A reaction that occurs without the addition of energy.
Related Words
spontaneity:
The quality of being spontaneous.
spontaneously:
In a spontaneous manner.
Slang Meanings of spontaneous
Meaning: Off-the-cuff
● Example Sentence: He gave an off-the-cuff speech that impressed everyone.
Meaning: Wing it
● Example Sentence: I didn't plan my presentation; I just decided to wing it.