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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That might mean coming closer together, like making long-term plans or even getting engaged. Victoria Edel, PEOPLE, 4 Oct. 2025 The difference between 10- and 30-year yields is near its highest in over a decade, signaling that long-term munis continue to offer outsized value. Paul Malloy, Fortune, 4 Oct. 2025 The kids who feel safe and celebrated are the ones who will stick with the sport long-term. Jonathan Carone, Parents, 4 Oct. 2025 The community benefits coalition partnered with the city, the University of Michigan and others to conduct long-term health impact assessments of residents in the project area, pre-bridge construction, during construction and once the bridge is operational. Keith Matheny, Freep.com, 3 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for long-term

Word History

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of long-term was in 1867

Cite this Entry

“Long-term.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/long-term. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

long-term

adjective
-ˈtərm
: extending over or involving a long period of time
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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