long-term

adjective

ˈlȯŋ-ˈtərm 

1

: occurring over or involving a relatively long period of time

seeking long-term solutions

2

a

: of, relating to, or constituting a financial operation or obligation based on a considerable term and especially one of more than 10 years

long-term bonds

b

: generated by assets held for longer than six months

a long-term capital gain

Synonyms of long-term

• long
• lengthy

Examples of long-term in a Sentence

before approving a new drug, the government insists on some long-term research to determine any possible side effects

Recent Examples on the Web

The continent has fewer high-growth companies, shallower capital markets and is thought to have a less compelling long-term earnings growth story. — Leonie Kidd, CNBC, 17 Aug. 2026

Whipsawed by praise one month and criticism the next, allies may decide to leave Washington out of their long-term military planning. — Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 17 Aug. 2026

Recent concerns regarding the war's impact on shipping and construction timelines were addressed by Disney's CFO, who reaffirmed full commitment, citing the project's long-term view and strategic rationale. — Caroline Reid, Forbes.com, 16 Aug. 2026

The danger is not only that markets fall; the danger is needing to liquidate long-term assets at precisely the wrong time. — Steve Booren, Denver Post, 16 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for long-term

• affirm
• bookworm
• budworm
• confirm
• cutworm
• earthworm
• infirm
• midterm
• ringworm
• tapeworm
• wireworm
• angiosperm

Kids Definition

long-term

adjective

-ˈtərm

: extending over or involving a long period of time