instantly
UK: /ˈɪnstəntli/ | US: /ˈɪnstəntli/
adv. without any delay; immediately
adv. in a way that suggests immediacy or urgency
The word "instantly" derives from the Latin instant- (present participle of instare, meaning "to stand upon or urge"), which evolved into the Old French instant ("urgent"). The root instant entered Middle English with the sense of "immediate or pressing," later forming the adverb instantly by adding the suffix -ly (from Old English -līce, denoting manner). The progression reflects a shift from literal urgency ("standing upon") to temporal immediacy ("without delay").
She responded instantly to the emergency call.
The app updates instantly when you refresh the page.
His expression changed instantly when he heard the news.
The pain relief works almost instantly.
The audience burst into applause instantly after the performance.