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''Transient'' is the term used to describe the initial part of the sound created when an instrument starts sounding a note. It often contains non-periodic oscillations (aka resonant pitches) and higher frequencies than the harmonic content of the ensuing note.
For guitar, depending on one's [[Touch, Dynamics, and Accents|playing style]], guitar setup, and means of sounding the strings, there can be very noticeable transients on the beginning of notes. The transients will be more apparent when playing loudly, using a pick, and using a setup with low action. A [[slapping|''slapping'']] technique will also prominently feature transients. On the other hand, playing softly using finger picking will reduce the relative presence of transients compared to the sound of the fundamental and harmonic frequencies of the string's resonance.