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

Trump had called for the leakers to face long-term jail sentences. — Chad De Guzman, Time, 15 Oct. 2026

His candidate lost in December 2018 to Kabila's long-term political rival, Tshisekedi. — Arkansas Online, 14 Oct. 2026

That would be maintaining a balance in the merchandise presentation, a balance between short- and long-term goals, and a business model shaped by both art and science. — David Moin, Footwear News, 14 Oct. 2026

Nepa said financial stress often causes people to focus on immediate financial problems rather than long-term goals. — Joshua Sidorowicz, CBS News, 14 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