short-term

adjective

ˈshȯrt-ˌtərm 

1

: occurring over or involving a relatively short period of time

2

a

: of, relating to, or constituting a financial operation or obligation based on a brief term and especially one of less than a year

b

: generated by assets held for less than six months

Synonyms of short-term

• temporary
• interim

Examples of short-term in a Sentence

this is only a short-term solution to a long-term problem

Recent Examples on the Web

Korean ginseng, also known as Asian ginseng, is recommended for short-term use and is often used to treat ailments such as fatigue. —Pubsubhub User, Chicago Tribune, 16 Feb. 2026

This outcome differs from many previous studies, which have focused on short-term cognitive impairment during or shortly after cannabis use, the researcher pointed out. —Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 15 Feb. 2026

Californians need structural stability, not short-term luck or talking points. —Suzette Valladares, Oc Register, 15 Feb. 2026

Sound fiscal management means planning ahead, telling taxpayers the truth, and making decisions based on long-term stability rather than short-term optics. —Rachel Royster, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1901, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for short-term

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

Kids Definition

short-term

adjective

-ˈtərm

: short-range

short-term goals

Legal Definition

short term

noun

: short rate