momentary

/ˈməʊmənt(ə)ɹi/

Group 8Difficulty 1/3

Definition

(adjective)
Lasting for a very short time; brief
GRE

Example in Context

There was a momentary silence in the chamber before the speaker announced the result, and then the room erupted in applause.

Synonyms

brieffleetinginstant

Etymology

Pertaining to a brief moment.

  • moment- (Latin) — a brief time
  • -ary (Latin) — pertaining to

Memory Aid

Sounds like “moment airy

A balloon that pops in a MOMENT, leaving only AIRY memories behind!

Visual Association

A lightning bolt that flashes and disappears in the blink of an eye!

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “momentary” mean on the GRE?

momentary (adjective) means “Lasting for a very short time; brief”. There was a momentary silence in the chamber before the speaker announced the result, and then the room erupted in applause.

How to remember “momentary” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “momentary” sounds like “moment airy”. A balloon that pops in a MOMENT, leaving only AIRY memories behind!

What are synonyms for “momentary”?

Common synonyms: brief, fleeting, instant.