second Definition
- 1constituting number two in a sequence; coming after the first in time or order
- 2a sixtieth of a minute of time, which is equal to one sixtieth of an hour or 1/86,400 of a day
- 3an additional thing or person
Using second: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "second" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
I'll be there in a second.
Example
The second chapter of the book is more interesting than the first.
Example
She finished the race in second place.
Example
Can I have a second helping of dessert?
second Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for second
Phrases with second
Example
Our team's performance was second to none.
Example
After taking a short break, she got her second wind and was able to finish the project.
a habit or behavior that has become automatic or instinctive through repetition or practice
Example
For him, playing the guitar is second nature.
Origins of second
from Old French 'secont', from Latin 'secundus', meaning 'following'
Summary: second in Brief
The word 'second' [ˈsɛkənd] can be used as an adjective or a noun. As an adjective, it refers to something that comes after the first in a sequence or order, such as 'the second chapter of the book.' As a noun, it can refer to a unit of time equal to 1/60th of a minute or an additional thing or person, as in 'Can I have a second helping of dessert?' The phrase 'second to none' means the best, while 'second wind' refers to renewed energy or strength. 'Second nature' describes a habit or behavior that has become automatic.