moment
A very brief period of time; a significant point in time.
Word facts
Definition
A moment is a very short period of time. It also refers to a specific point in time that is significant or worth remembering.
Usage: A moment is brief. Momentous means very important, not very short — a common confusion. Momentum is related by etymology but means force or movement in physics.
Example sentences
Just give me a moment to think before I answer.
That was the moment everything changed.
She captured a quiet moment between two old friends.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word family
From Latin momentum ('movement, instant'), from movere ('to move'). A moment is a tiny unit of movement through time.
Moment comes from 'move' — time moves, and a moment is the smallest measurable movement of time.
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FAQ
Questions people ask
What does momentous mean?
Momentous means extremely important or significant — not simply lasting a moment. Example: a momentous decision.
What is the difference between a moment and an instant?
Both are very short. Instant tends to mean zero duration (instantaneous). Moment allows for a brief but perceptible pause.