short-lived

adjective

ˈshȯrt-ˈlivd 

also

-ˈlīvd 

: not living or lasting long

short-lived insects

short-lived joy

Synonyms of short-lived

• brief
• temporary
• flash
• transient
• passing
• fleeting
• ephemeral

Examples of short-lived in a Sentence

the skier's triumph turned out to be short-lived, as the next competitor bested her time

Recent Examples on the Web

Jim warned Wednesday that Wall Street's enthusiasm following the midterm elections could prove short-lived. — Alexa Lomonaco, CNBC, 5 Nov. 2026

At the same time, Jets head coach Aaron Glenn needs to show tangible progress in his second season — or his tenure in New York could be short-lived. — Kansas City Star, 5 Nov. 2026

The impact of rocket launches, triggered by the supersonic flight of the rocket body through the high-altitude air, is much more short-lived. — Tereza Pultarova, Space.com, 4 Nov. 2026

While Kirk made history with his win, his tenue was short-lived. — Roger Simmons, The Orlando Sentinel, 2 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1588, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for short-lived

• outlived
• relived

Kids Definition

short-lived

adjective

ˈshȯrt-ˈlīvd, 

-ˌlivd

: living or lasting only a short time

short-lived blooms

short-lived joy