impromptu

[ im-promp-too, -tyoo ]

adjective

1. made or done without previous preparation:

   an impromptu address to the unexpected crowds.

2. suddenly or hastily prepared, made, etc.:

   an impromptu dinner.

3. improvised; having the character of an improvisation.

adverb

1. without preparation:

   verses written impromptu.

noun

1. something impromptu; an impromptu speech, musical composition, performance, etc.
2. a character piece for piano common in the 19th century and having, despite its title, a clear-cut form.

impromptu

/ ɪmˈprɒmptjuː /

adjective

1. unrehearsed; spontaneous; extempore
2. produced or done without care or planning; improvised

adverb

1. in a spontaneous or improvised way

   he spoke impromptu

noun

1. something that is impromptu
2. a short piece of instrumental music, sometimes improvisatory in character

Word History and Origins

Origin of impromptu¹

First recorded in 1660–70; from French, from Latin in promptū “in readiness”; in, prompt

Word History and Origins

Origin of impromptu¹

C17: from French, from Latin in promptū in readiness, from promptus (adj) ready, prompt

Synonym Study

See extemporaneous.

Example Sentences

In 1968, the two men convened an impromptu ensemble that they knew might destabilized their reputations.

From Los Angeles Times

The impromptu test came as a surprise.

From Los Angeles Times

After all the speeches and mail pieces, all the TV ads, the debates, town halls, prime-time interviews, impromptu statements and hasty clarifications, it’s finally voters’ turn to have their say.

From Los Angeles Times

Baffert understands that sometimes he talks a little too much and previously said he wished he hadn’t held the impromptu news conference after he learned of the positive test.

From Los Angeles Times

When presented with the opportunity to play the lead, Briones took a more technical approach to learning English with the help of fellow “La Cocina” actor María Fernanda Bosque, who served as his impromptu coach.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• offhand
• spontaneous
• unscripted