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Fleetingly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fleetingly

[ˈfliːtɪŋli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

used in a sentence

For a very short time; briefly.

Synonyms

briefly, momentarily, transiently.

Examples of usage

  • She caught only a fleetingly glimpse of the famous actor before he disappeared into the crowd.
  • The feeling of happiness passed fleetingly, leaving her feeling empty once again.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • The concept of fleeting moments is a common theme in poetry, symbolizing the temporary nature of life.
  • Famous poets like John Keats reflect on fleeting beauty in their works, emphasizing how quickly life can change.
  • In modern literature, narratives often explore fleeting connections between characters, capturing the essence of brief but impactful encounters.

Psychology

  • Research shows that memories can feel fleeting, especially when they relate to strong emotions or experiences.
  • The term aligns with the idea of 'transience' in psychology, where individuals value temporary moments just as much as lasting ones.
  • Fleeting experiences can lead to greater appreciation for the present, highlighting mindfulness practices in psychology.

Pop Culture

  • Popular songs often use themes of fleeting love or moments, resonating with listeners' experiences of brief relationships.
  • In film, fleeting interactions between characters can convey deep emotional connections developed in a short time.
  • The notion of 'fleeting trends' often appears in fashion, where styles come and go rapidly, influencing consumer behavior.

Science

  • In physics, fleeting moments can refer to particles that exist for extremely brief periods before decaying.
  • The concept of fleeting time can also be discussed in quantum mechanics, where particle behavior can change instantaneously.
  • In biology, fleeting life stages, such as those of certain insects, highlight adaptation strategies in nature.

Origin of 'fleetingly'

Main points about word origin

  • The root of the word comes from 'fleet,' which means to move swiftly.
  • The suffix '-ly' changes an adjective into an adverb, indicating how something occurs.
  • In Middle English, 'fleete' was used to describe something that moves quickly, showing the word's deep connection to speed.

The word 'fleetingly' comes from the verb 'fleet,' which originated from the Middle English word 'fleten' meaning 'to drift' or 'to float.' Over time, 'fleet' evolved to include the meaning of moving swiftly or quickly, leading to the adverb 'fleetingly' to describe something happening briefly or for a short duration.

See also: fleet, fleeting, fleetingness.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,959 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.