fleetingly

Fleetingly is an adverb that describes something occurring for a very short time or passing quickly. It emphasizes transience, momentariness, or evanescence, and it typically modifies verbs or phrases that denote action, perception, or state.

Etymology: The adverb derives from the adjective fleeting, which in turn reflects a sense of rapid movement or passing. The suffix -ly is used to form adverbs, producing fleetingly to indicate the manner in which something happens.

Usage: Fleetingly is common in literary and formal prose. It describes perceptions, opportunities, memories, or appearances that do not endure. Examples include: "She smiled fleetingly before turning away," "The light flickered fleetingly across the water," and "A fleeting opportunity." The term conveys impermanence and a sense of fragility in the moment.

Related terms: Ephemeral, transitory, momentary, and evanescent are closely associated concepts describing short duration or transience. In contrast, enduring or lasting describes something with greater duration.