Meaning & Definition of word "Transient"

Transient

/ˈtræn.zi.ənt/

noun:

  • 1. a person who is staying or working in a place for only a short time.
    • Example: The shelter provides services for transients who need a place to stay for the night.
  • 2. a phenomenon or event that is temporary or short-lived.
    • Example: The transients created by the brief power outage caused minor disruptions in the system.

adjective:

  • 1. lasting only for a short time; temporary.
    • Example: The transient beauty of the sunset captivated everyone.
  • 2. not permanent; remaining only briefly.
    • Example: They took up transient residence in the city while looking for a more permanent home.

Etymology

From Latin 'transiens', present participle of 'transire' which means 'to go across or beyond'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

transient nature:

The quality of being temporary or short-lived.

transient lifestyle:

A way of living that involves moving often and not staying in one place.

transient population:

A group of people who are not permanent residents in a location.

Related Words

transience:

The state of lasting for a very short time.

transit:

The process of being transported.

transitory:

Existing only briefly.

Slang Meanings of transient

Meaning: A short-term stay, often used in the context of living arrangements.

Example Sentence: He's just a transient in town, won't be here long.

Meaning: Someone who frequently moves from place to place.

Example Sentence: She's a transient, always hopping from one city to another.