# Secs

/sˈɛks/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/secs
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a short way of saying 'seconds' when talking about time. You use this when you want someone to wait for a very short moment.

For teachers: a colloquial clipping of 'seconds', referring to units of time or a brief interval. Typically used in the plural to indicate a short wait.

## Examples

- I will be ready in just a few secs.
- Hang on for two secs while I grab my keys from the kitchen table.
- The software update only takes a few secs to complete, yet it significantly improves the overall security of the operating system.

## Usage notes

- Almost exclusively used in the plural form in informal speech; rarely appears in formal writing.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.