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

This suggests that regardless of short-term stock fluctuations in software companies, the capital expenditure on the physical hardware and facilities required to run them is locked in, providing a floor for economic activity. —Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 9 Feb. 2026

Another internal document Lanier showed from YouTube suggested that the video streaming platform be used as a short-term digital babysitter while parents cook, clean or do laundry. —Clare Duffy, CNN Money, 9 Feb. 2026

Studies suggest vibration can increase muscle activation and blood flow, which may support circulation and short-term performance. —Ciara Lucas, SELF, 9 Feb. 2026

Additionally, some cities have regulations in place regarding short-term rentals and Airbnbs. —Kate Donovan, Martha Stewart, 9 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