impromptu
Americanadjective
-
made or done without previous preparation.
an impromptu address to the unexpected crowds.
-
suddenly or hastily prepared, made, etc..
an impromptu dinner.
-
improvised; having the character of an improvisation.
adverb
noun
-
something impromptu; an impromptu speech, musical composition, performance, etc.
-
a character piece for piano common in the 19th century and having, despite its title, a clear-cut form.
adjective
-
unrehearsed; spontaneous; extempore
-
produced or done without care or planning; improvised
adverb
noun
-
something that is impromptu
-
a short piece of instrumental music, sometimes improvisatory in character
Related Words
See extemporaneous.
Etymology
Origin of impromptu
First recorded in 1660–70; from French, from Latin in promptū “in readiness”; in, prompt
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The vibe was festive, social and playfully raucous — more impromptu living room performance among friends than comedy club.
From Los Angeles Times
There might be an impromptu celebration including Snow Delights of different flavors, all raised in a toast to Duane’s accomplishment.
From Literature
One protester climbed onto an impromptu stage and bravely proclaimed: "I am a Yoon voter... But he really crossed the line. I regret voting for him."
From BBC
Stella’s restless energy in wanting to fix things spurs her to arrange an impromptu trip for them to Amsterdam.
From Los Angeles Times
The impromptu reunion felt like a full-circle moment, said Frey, who moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting about two years ago.
From Los Angeles Times
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
