ENGLISH
REFERENCE

seconds

n.
US //ˈsɛkəndz// sec·onds
  1. 1 units of time (n.)
    A1 Beginner

    more than one unit of time; there are sixty of these in one minute.

    the plural form of the SI unit of time.

    Example

    The race was so close that only two seconds separated the winner from the runner-up.

    Example

    The digital timer tracks the countdown in seconds, providing a precise visual cue for the laboratory technicians during the experiment.
  2. 2 extra food (n.)
    B1 Intermediate Informal Cooking

    a second portion of food or drink after you have finished your first one.

    an additional helping of food or a refill of a beverage served after the initial portion has been consumed.

    Example

    The dinner was so delicious that almost everyone asked for seconds.

    Example

    Despite having already consumed a substantial main course, several guests were eager for seconds of the homemade apple crumble.
  3. 3 imperfect goods (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    products that have small mistakes and are sold at a lower price.

    manufactured items, particularly clothing or textiles, that have failed quality control and are sold at a discount.

    Example

    I bought these towels as seconds because they had a few loose threads, but they work perfectly.

    Example

    The factory outlet specialises in selling seconds, allowing consumers to purchase high-end designer labels at a fraction of the retail price due to minor aesthetic flaws.

Last updated June 19, 2026