Moment

Definition

Moment is a noun. It refers to a brief period of time or a specific instance of significance. In physics, it can describe a measure of force or torque acting on an object.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmoʊ.mənt/
• Respelling: MOH-muhnt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈməʊ.mənt/
• Respelling: MOH-muhnt

Etymology

The word "moment" originates from the Latin "momentum," meaning "movement" or "importance." It entered Middle English via Old French "moment," maintaining its dual meanings of time and significance.

Derivatives

• Momentary (adjective)
• Momentous (adjective)
• Momentum (noun)
• Momently (adverb, archaic)
• Momentariness (noun)

Synonyms

• Instant
• Second
• Point

Antonyms

• Eternity
• Lifetime
• Duration

Usage

The term "moment" is widely used in everyday language to denote short periods of time or pivotal instances. For example, "Please wait a moment," or "That was a defining moment in history."

Related Terms

• Time: A continuous sequence of existence and events.
• Instance: A specific occurrence of something.
• Significance: The importance or meaning of an event or action.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A brief period of time: Refers to a very short duration.
  • Example: "It will only take a moment to fix this."
• A specific point in time: Denotes a particular instance or occurrence.
  • Example: "That was a memorable moment in my life."
• In physics, a measure of force or torque: Refers to the turning effect produced by a force acting on a point.
  • Example: "The engineer calculated the bending moment of the beam."