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

Microbes could be the future space miners, helping humans survive on long-term missions by extracting mineral resources from extraterrestrial rocks. —Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 12 Feb. 2026

The Mega Projects bill would allow the Bears, or any other sponsor of a major development, to negotiate long-term property taxes with local taxing bodies. —Robert McCoppin, Chicago Tribune, 11 Feb. 2026

The ability of a senior to have a long-term caregiver or companion while remaining at home can help mitigate these risks. —Heather Madden, Boston Herald, 11 Feb. 2026

Entrepreneurs and small businesses face uncertainty around taxes, compliance costs and the state’s long-term financial outlook. —Steve Hershey, Baltimore Sun, 11 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for long-term

• affirm
• bookworm
• confirm
• cutworm
• earthworm
• infirm
• midterm
• tapeworm
• wireworm
• angiosperm
• echinoderm
• berm

Kids Definition

long-term

adjective

-ˈtərm

: extending over or involving a long period of time