Meaning & Definition of word "Ephemeral"

Ephemeral

/ɪˈfɛm.ər.əl/

adjective:

  • 1. lasting for a very short time
    • Example: The beauty of the sunset was ephemeral, fading away as quickly as it appeared.
  • 2. transient; fleeting
    • Example: The artist captured the ephemeral nature of spring flowers in her paintings.
  • 3. existing only briefly; short-lived
    • Example: His fame was ephemeral, lasting only a few weeks before being replaced by newer sensations.
  • 4. related to things that are temporary
    • Example: They enjoyed the ephemeral joy of the festival before returning to their daily routines.

Etymology

From Greek 'ephemeros', meaning 'lasting only a day'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

ephemeral beauty:

Beauty that is fleeting or short-lived.

ephemeral nature:

The transient aspect of experiences or things.

ephemeral art:

Art that is intentionally short-lived.

Related Words

transience:

The state of lasting for a short time.

impermanence:

Not lasting forever; temporary.

fleeting:

Passing swiftly; ephemeral.

Slang Meanings of ephemeral

Meaning: Short-lived

Example Sentence: This trend is just so ephemeral; it won't last.

Meaning: Momentarily cool

Example Sentence: That outfit is ephemeral; it’s on point but won’t be in style for long.