spontaneity

noun

spon·​ta·​ne·​i·​ty ˌspän-tə-ˈnē-ə-tē How to pronounce spontaneity (audio) -ˈnā- How to pronounce spontaneity (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being spontaneous
2
: voluntary or undetermined action or movement
also : its source

Examples of spontaneity in a Sentence

the spontaneity of their behavior the couple sacrificed some of the spontaneity in their lives when they both got nine-to-five jobs
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Harlem Wizards are a show basketball team whose performances are marked by comedy, audience participation and spontaneity. Nollyanne Delacruz, Mercury News, 22 Apr. 2025 The Reformers: Honolulu, Hawaii These folks, often seen as perfectionists, are also known for their spontaneity and, most importantly, their helpful nature. Ronny Maye, Essence, 21 Apr. 2025 Still, the constant on each is Cline’s singularly timeless voice, delivering music with the spontaneity of live performance. Nancy Kruh, People.com, 12 Apr. 2025 The improvisational nature of jazz inspires me to explore spontaneity and creativity in compositions, while the structure and harmony of classical music can influence a sense of balance and aesthetics. Rolling Stone Culture Council, Rolling Stone, 4 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for spontaneity

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin spontāneitāt-, spontāneitās, from Late Latin spontāneus "voluntary, unconstrained, spontaneous" + Latin -itāt-, -itās -ity

First Known Use

1651, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of spontaneity was in 1651

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Cite this Entry

“Spontaneity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spontaneity. Accessed 2 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

spontaneity

noun
spon·​ta·​ne·​ity
ˌspänt-ən-ˈē-ət-ē,
ˌspänt-ᵊn-,
-ˈā-ət-
: the quality or state of being spontaneous

More from Merriam-Webster on spontaneity

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