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Definitions

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.

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

Leicester got off to an awful start and, despite momentary glimmers of hope, relegation was out of their hands come the final day.

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2026

Observing that momentary disappearance allows scientists to calculate the asteroid's position, speed, and shape with remarkable precision.

From Science Daily • Mar. 9, 2026

His example reminds us that showing up regularly can be worth far more than any momentary spark of inspiration.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 3, 2026

He paused, then, as Poirot did not speak, he made an apologetic little bow, and after a momentary hesitation left the dining car in the same quiet, unobtrusive fashion as he had come.

From "Murder on the Orient Express" by Agatha Christie