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

Others are trying to drive employees toward what are called Centers of Excellence—essentially hospitals or medical practices with high ratings that may save money in the long-term since employees won’t need to return again and again for care. — Alana Semuels, Time, 22 Oct. 2026

Abu Dhabi’s experience shows how long-term planning can deliver a diverse, resilient energy mix. — H.e. Dr Abdulla Saif Al Jarwan, Fortune, 21 Oct. 2026

Oum and Chloe allegedly billed government programs and long-term care companies for services that were never provided, according to Staten Island District Attorney Michael McMahon. — Lisa Rozner, CBS News, 21 Oct. 2026

Without long-term federal funding for transportation projects, manufacturing plants and good-paying jobs like these could leave North Carolina entirely. — Kevin Blackwell, Charlotte Observer, 21 Oct. 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