momentary

[moh-muhn-ter-ee] / ˈmoʊ mənˌtɛr i /

ADJECTIVE

brief, fleeting

Synonyms

STRONGEST

short-lived temporary transitory

WEAK

cursory dreamlike ephemeral evanescent flashing flitting flying fugacious fugitive gone in flash hasty impermanent impulsive in wink of an eye instantaneous like lightning passing quick shifting short spasmodic summary transient vanishing volatile

Antonyms

STRONGEST

lasting lengthy long-lived permanent

WEAK

long-lasting staying

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“It’ll have a momentary effect, no doubt about it. Humans are very reactionary,” Parsons said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 15, 2026

CrowdStrike Holdings is having a stellar month, and that hot run isn’t just a momentary blip, according to analysts at Morgan Stanley.

From Barron's • Apr. 2, 2026

It is but a momentary respite for the hard-pressed island.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

Speaking to the BBC last year, she admitted to a momentary crisis of confidence.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

When Kinko emerges from the goat room, his eyes crinkle in momentary alarm.

From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen

Vocabulary lists containing momentary

Chronically Dolores

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Brief

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-ary

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