short-lived

adjective

ˈshȯrt-ˈlivd 

also

-ˈlīvd 

: not living or lasting long

short-lived insects

short-lived joy

Synonyms of short-lived

• brief
• temporary
• flash
• transient
• passing
• fleeting
• ephemeral

Examples of short-lived in a Sentence

the skier's triumph turned out to be short-lived, as the next competitor bested her time

Recent Examples on the Web

But the improvements were short-lived as rates rose significantly in March, driven by a series of uneven economic reports and a spike in geopolitical tensions and overseas conflicts. —Matt Richardson, CBS News, 8 Apr. 2026

Relief for seasonal allergy sufferers was short-lived, as warm and sunny weather over the weekend encouraged Boise-area trees release more pollen. —Hali Smith april 7, Idaho Statesman, 7 Apr. 2026

But just like the previous day’s contest, in which the Red Sox took a 4-0 lead in the third and immediately gave it away over the course of the next two innings, their advantage was short-lived. —Gabrielle Starr, Boston Herald, 7 Apr. 2026

Spring, mirroring fall’s brief but brilliant stay, always feels too short-lived. —Lydia Mansel, Southern Living, 6 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1588, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for short-lived

• outlived
• relived

Kids Definition

short-lived

adjective

ˈshȯrt-ˈlīvd, 

-ˌlivd

: living or lasting only a short time

short-lived blooms

short-lived joy