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

Continuing that synthesis — of theory and practice, of short-term goals and long-term ambitions — is the challenge, and the next step is closing out a team that’s in the process learning a thing or two about itself. —Sean Gentille, New York Times, 28 May 2026

Buyers gain confidence knowing the structure, systems, and leadership are already in place to support long-term growth. —Terri Eagle, Forbes.com, 27 May 2026

By embedding resale opportunities straight into the initial buying destination, Naia creates early indicators of long-term value, encourages a continuous cycle of wardrobe circulation and positions itself as the definitive global destination for independent fashion. —Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 27 May 2026

The Space Force’s decision to turn over the data relay backbone to SpaceX will shrink SDA’s portfolio, raising questions about the agency’s long-term future. —ArsTechnica, 27 May 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