# split-second

> English word · Noun · IPA /ˌsplɪtˈsɛk(ə)nd/

## Definitions
1. A stopwatch with two second hands, each of which may be stopped separately to time the intervals of a race by a sportsperson, or to time more than one sportsperson.
2. A fraction of a second; hence (figurative, also attributive) a very short time period; an instant, a moment.

## Etymology
From split (adjective) + second (noun), from split second(s) hands: see sense 1.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/split-second