extemporaneous
UK: /ɪkˌstem.pəˈreɪ.ni.əs/ | US: /ɪkˌstem.pəˈreɪ.ni.əs/
adj. spoken or done without preparation; improvised
adj. composed or performed with little or no prior rehearsal
extemporaneous = ex<out of> + tempor<time> + aneous<adjective suffix>
- ex (Latin: "out of")
- tempor (Latin: "time," from tempus)
- aneous (adjective-forming suffix, from Latin -aneus)
Etymology Origin:
Derived from Latin ex tempore ("out of time"), the word originally described speech or actions performed "on the spur of the moment." The morpheme tempor reflects its connection to time, while ex emphasizes improvisation ("outside prepared time"). Over time, -aneous was added to form an adjective, preserving the core idea of spontaneity.
The speaker delivered an extemporaneous speech that captivated the audience.
Her extemporaneous remarks revealed her quick thinking.
Jazz musicians often thrive on extemporaneous performances.
He answered the interview questions with extemporaneous clarity.
The debate required extemporaneous responses to unexpected arguments.