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.