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

The family had previously believed their house in England would be their long-term home. — Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 23 Aug. 2026

Investing is about ownership, long-term growth, and building a future. — Emily Stack, Hartford Courant, 23 Aug. 2026

Affordability pressures are real, insurance costs remain a significant concern for homeowners and developers alike, and infrastructure has to keep pace with growth for any of this to work long-term. — Justin Onorato, The Orlando Sentinel, 23 Aug. 2026

For the sake of the city’s long-term financial health, our legislators need to allow families to afford to remain in Chicago. — Adam Drakulic, Chicago Tribune, 23 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