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

Wu said there are cleaning protocols hospitals and long-term care facilities can use to minimize potential spread of the fungus. — Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 10 Aug. 2026

As the average iPhone owner comes out of contract at the end of September, Apple presents a new iPhone just as the decision point is reached, a point that will no doubt be emphasised by carriers looking to secure another long-term contract. — Ewan Spence, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026

Those same experts suggested that even with permanent approval, long-term oil drilling in the region also could be a high-stakes gamble. — Andre Mouchard, Oc Register, 9 Aug. 2026

These exemptions allow governments to underfund long-term pension promises while still reporting a balanced budget — or even a surplus — on their short-term books. — Sheila Weinberg, Baltimore Sun, 9 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