second

[ˈsɛkənd]

second Definition

• 1. constituting number two in a sequence; coming after the first in time or order
• 2. a sixtieth of a minute of time, which is equal to one sixtieth of an hour or 1/86,400 of a day
• 3. an 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

• next
• subsequent
• other
• additional
• extra

Antonyms for second

• first
• primary
• initial

Phrases with second

• second to none

  the best; better than all others

  Example

  Our team's performance was second to none.

• second wind

  a renewed energy or strength to continue something after feeling tired or discouraged

  Example

  After taking a short break, she got her second wind and was able to finish the project.

• second nature

  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'

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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.